France vs Morocco
FIFA World Cup
Semi-Final
14th December 2022
Al Bayt Stadium
France vs Morocco: Preview
The second semi-final fixture between France and Morocco is a final four fixture that almost none would have foreseen. Largely due to the fact that Morocco have pulled off upset after upset to become the first African nation to reach this stage of the tournament.
However, despite France being one of the best sides if not the best in terms of sheer quality many did not give them a chance. Few due to the champions curse, others due to their poor Nations League performance and others due to crucial injuries.
All things said, there is still one clear favourite for this fixture. In the event of the opposite, it would undoubtedly be the greatest moment in African football history and one of the greatest upsets in all of sports.
France
Les Blues has proved their immense squad depth across every position is still enough to put up an eleven despite losing arguably their three or four most important players. With the quality from every corner of the field they would win this game on paper with ease.
In this team of stars, Kylian Mbappe is their talisman and could change the course of the game with just a few moments. Their attack has shown they don’t need many chances to convert and have saved the side from other areas, where the output lacked.
Morocco
The African side has shown discipline across every department on the field and have rarely set a foot wrong. They have also managed to outright dominate certain portions of their fixtures against the two Iberian nations.
This consistency is exactly what they need to do against France. As any stretch of mediocrity would cost dearly for them.
Predictions
Morocco deserves a world of praise for reaching this stage of the biggest football tournament. However, this beautiful run is likely to end here as the French side are just too mighty. I fully expect them to seal the result within regulation time.
France have scored just twice in the first half, in their last four World Cup fixtures. Their opponents meanwhile, have conceded just once in their last nine fixtures across all competitions. Hence expect a goalless first half.
France vs Morocco: Odds
France to win @ 1.59 odds.
Correct score – Half time: 0-0 @ 2.60 odds.
