By Ghazali Ibrahim
France and Morocco are set for a blockbuster FIFA World Cup quarter-final clash after both nations secured victories to the round of 16.
France booked their place in the last eight with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Paraguay at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Les Bleus struggled to break down Paraguay’s disciplined defence for much of the contest before being awarded a second-half penalty.
Captain Kylian Mbappe stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, scoring his seventh goal of the tournament and sealing France’s passage to the quarter-finals.
Earlier, Morocco advanced with an impressive 3-0 victory over Canada.
The Atlas Lions delivered a clinical second-half display to eliminate the Canadians and remain Africa’s sole representative in the competition.
The quarter-final encounter will revive memories of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where France defeated Morocco 2-0 in the semi-finals to end the North Africans’ historic run to the last four.
The upcoming showdown is expected to be one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures, with Morocco seeking revenge for their defeat in Qatar and France aiming to continue their title campaign.
Football analysts believe Mbappe’s form has been crucial to France’s campaign, but Les Bleus side could face a stern test against Morocco’s well-organised defence and dangerous counter-attacking style.
With a place in the semi-finals at stake, the meeting between the two sides promises another thrilling chapter in their growing World Cup rivalry.
