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Mbappé and Dembélé Propel France to World Cup Semifinals with Win Over Morocco

The 2026 World Cup quarterfinals narrowed the competition to just eight teams, and France preserved its flawless record by beating Morocco 2-0. This victory marks France’s third straight appearance in the World Cup semifinals.

Kylian Mbappé continued his stellar tournament with a goal early in the second half, reclaiming the lead in the Golden Boot race against Lionel Messi. Both players have now scored eight goals each, but Mbappé leads due to having more assists. Despite missing a penalty and sustaining an ankle knock that forced him off late in the match, Mbappé's impact was undeniable. Shortly after his goal, Ousmane Dembélé sealed the win for France with a second goal.

France will next face the winner of Friday’s quarterfinal between Belgium and Spain.

World Cup Quarterfinals Schedule

  • Final score: France 2, Morocco 0
  • Friday, July 10, 3 p.m. ET (Fox): Belgium vs. Spain
  • Saturday, July 11, 5 p.m. ET (Fox): Norway vs. England
  • Saturday, July 11, 9 p.m. ET (Fox): Argentina vs. Switzerland

Preview: Spain vs. Belgium

Spain enters this matchup having scored nine goals and conceded none during the tournament. Their defense has been remarkable, allowing the fewest shots and the lowest shot quality of any knockout-stage team. Goalkeeper Unai Simón leads the tournament with five clean sheets and has not allowed a goal in over 600 minutes.

Belgium, meanwhile, stunned the United States with a commanding 4-1 victory in the Round of 16. Despite injuries including the loss of midfielder Amadou Onana, Belgium executed a smart game plan to neutralize the US press. Coach Rudi Garcia favors an aggressive style late in matches, which could present scoring chances even against Spain’s strong defense.

We think both teams will find the net in this clash.

England and Norway Set for Quarterfinal Battle

England earned a historic victory at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca, setting up a tough quarterfinal against Erling Haaland's Norway. Since their 1966 World Cup triumph, England has won only ten knockout matches, making this run especially significant. The clash promises a test of strength as these two powerhouses vie for a semifinal spot.

Injury Updates and Player Highlights

Christian Pulisic of the USMNT faced criticism amid reports he sustained a bone bruise and microfracture in his right leg during the loss to Belgium. Former USWNT star Carli Lloyd remained critical despite the injury revelation, referencing his absence at last year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Kylian Mbappé appears to have shaken off concerns about his ankle injury after leaving the Morocco game, seen celebrating energetically post-match.

Viewership Milestone for USA-Belgium Match

The United States’ 4-1 loss to Belgium attracted 33 million viewers on Fox, becoming the most-watched soccer game in US history. Telemundo’s Spanish broadcast added another 12 million viewers, highlighting the sport’s growing popularity in the country.

Mbappé Tops Golden Boot Race

Mbappé’s eighth goal lifted him ahead of Messi in the Golden Boot standings due to his three assists, compared to Messi’s single assist. Both superstars missed penalties in the same match, adding drama to their ongoing duel.

Erling Haaland commented on Mbappé’s penalty delay, saying, "Need to wait five min to take a penalty is way too long." Haaland faces England in the upcoming quarterfinal.

The stage is set for some thrilling World Cup semifinals as top players and nations aim to leave their mark.

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