France to face Morocco in World Cup quarter-final after both win last-16 ties
France beat Paraguay 1-0 and Morocco defeated Canada 3-0 on July 4, setting up a quarter-final clash in Boston on July 9 that revives their 2022 World Cup semi-final.
Last-16 results
France edged Paraguay 1-0 in a tense round-of-16 match on July 4. Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty in the 70th minute to break the deadlock after a physical contest that saw French fans criticise the referee for not booking Paraguayan players. Supporters in Paris, Strasbourg and Saint-Ouen celebrated the hard-fought win.
Morocco overwhelmed Canada 3-0 later the same day. After a goalless first half, midfielder Azzedine scored twice to send the Atlas Lions through. The victory sparked wild celebrations across Morocco, with thousands gathering in Casablanca and an estimated 10,000 fans watching on giant screens at Bab Boujloud square in Fes.
Quarter-final showdown
The two sides will meet on Thursday, July 9, at 20:00 UTC (22:00 Paris time) in Boston. It is a rematch of the 2022 semi-final, which France won. Franco-Moroccan supporters are torn but excited.
Simo noted that Morocco's team now has more experience and composure. Yahia argued that France has not yet faced a truly difficult opponent in this tournament, while Marwane, a musician, said he produced a song for both nations.It would be an exploit for us, we believe in it!
Fan zones in Paris
Paris mayor Emmanuel Grégoire said the city is working with the police prefecture to set up fan zones for the quarter-final and potential later matches. No fan zones had been organised earlier because of late-night kick-off times.
He said multiple smaller venues would be preferred over a single large gathering to reduce heat risks, adding that "Paris will be there" from Thursday.We cannot set up fan zones at such off-peak hours.
Celebrations in Morocco
In Casablanca, supporters danced and chanted slogans after the Canada win.
Fans sang "Ouahbi and his children, nobody can beat them!" and looked ahead to the France match. A young supporter told RFI: "We all hope we can beat France and reach the final."Today our players have more control, more serenity in their game. They never panicked.
- Mbappé penalty in the 70th minute sends France through to the last eight.
- Azzedine double and a third goal seal Morocco's place in the quarter-finals.
- France face Morocco in the quarter-final in Boston (20:00 UTC).
