France made their way to their second consecutive World Cup final after they defeated Morocco 2-0 in a fantastic encounter at the Al Bayt Stadium. Les Bleus took the lead after just five minutes through Theo Hernandez before a second half goal by substitute Randal Kolo Muani sealed the victory, despite a spirited performance by the Atlas Lions. Antoine Griezmann put in a brilliant display at both ends of the pitch to help his side as they now head into a showdown against Argentina in the final. So, here’s our France player ratings for their 2-0 win over Morocco.
France (4-2-3-1):
Hugo Lloris – 7
Made a strong stop down to his left to stop a speculative effort from Azzedine Ounahi early on. Didn’t have to make too many saves, especially considering the pressure from Morocco but did well when needed.
Jules Kounde – 7
Was put under pressure a couple of times in the second half but made an excellent block near the goal mouth late on. Solid performance.
Raphael Varane – 7
Slid Griezmann through with a delicious pass in the build up to the opening goal. Had to deal with a lot of pressure in the box and made a couple of good clearances.
Ibrahima Konate – 7.5
Made an excellent block in the middle of the box after a good ball in by Sofiane Boufal in the second half. Made some important blocks and interceptions.
Theo Hernandez – 6.5
Finished his chance superbly from close range with an athletic half volley. Received a bombardment of Moroccan attacks down his side of the pitch and did struggle a little against Hakim Ziyech and Achraf Hakimi.
Aurelien Tchouameni – 8
Played an excellent through ball in behind the Atlas Lions’ defense for Mbappe in the first half and looked tidy in possession. Lost possession in a dangerous area in the second quarter of the last forty five that was almost costly but overall, put in a very strong display here.
Youssouf Fofana – 7.5
Won the ball back well and drove forward at speed to launch a couple of French attacks. Forced deep and towards the French left flank to help with the threat of both Ziyech and Hakimi and did put in a couple of good challenges.
Ousmane Dembele – 6.5
Looked a threat on the counter at points but wasn’t too impactful here.
Antoine Griezmann – 9
Best player on the pitch and received the ball in dangerous positions, also making a couple of good runs in the France attack. Looked sharp, battled hard in the midfield battle and seemed to be in the right place at the right time. Was everywhere for Les Bleus with a phenomenal display of work rate and defensive acumen.
Kylian Mbappe – 8
Got in behind the Moroccan defense and could have put France two goals ahead before the break. Failed to track back to help stop the threat of Hakimi but did play a key part in the second France goal, causing havoc in the box before the ball made its way onto Kolo Muani.
Olivier Giroud – 6
Almost capitalised on a mistake at the back by Romain Saiss in the first forty five but his strike was denied by the post. Should have done better and shown more composure after a poor miss on the follow up to Mbappe’s chance in the first half.
Substitutions
Marcus Thuram – 7
Made an impact when he came on and caused some issues for the Moroccan defense. Tracked back well too.
Randal Kolo Muani – 7
Scored his first-ever goal for France with one of his first touches of the game, tapping the ball home with an easy finish.