Morocco’s 2026 FIFA World Cup journey came to an end after a hard-fought 2-0 loss to France in the quarter-finals, bringing the curtain down on Africa’s participation at the global showpiece at the Boston Stadium.
France dominated much of the opening half and were handed a golden opportunity to take the lead when Kylian Mbappé won a penalty in the 25th minute.
However, Yassine Bounou once again showcased his world-class credentials by producing an excellent save to deny the French captain, ensuring the teams remained level at the interval.
The Atlas Lions returned after the break with renewed purpose, enjoying their best spell of the match as Azzedine Ounahi drove the team forward and Morocco looked increasingly threatening in attack.
Just after the hour mark, Mbappé reminded the world of his exceptional quality by curling a superb finish into the far corner to finally break Morocco’s resistance.
The goal seemed to unsettle Morocco as France pressed on and were rewarded.
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Six minutes later, Mbappe turned provider as Ousmane Dembélé doubled France’s advantage with a low strike from the edge of the area.
France saw out the closing stages professionally to secure a 2-0 victory and a place in the semi-finals, while Morocco departed with their reputation enhanced once again.
Morocco entered the last-eight determined to go one step further against a French side widely regarded as one of the tournament favourites. However, they could not match their opponents in different departments.
