France and Morocco Battle in World Cup 2026 Quarterfinal Rematch in Boston

The 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals have begun with a highly anticipated match between France and Morocco in Boston. This game revisits their 2022 World Cup semifinal clash in Qatar, where France won 2-0, ending Morocco's historic run as the first African team to reach that stage. France, coached by Didier Deschamps, is aiming for a third consecutive World Cup semifinal appearance. The team has not lost in 12 official matches and has won its last seven. This match also marks Deschamps' 25th World Cup game as a coach, with a potential 20th victory.

Morocco, who stunned the world in 2022, seeks to become the first African nation to reach two World Cup semifinals. They advanced after a convincing 3-0 win over co-host Canada in the round of 16 and come into this match undefeated in their last ten games since the Africa Cup of Nations final. Morocco views this game as a chance for sports revenge against France. Key player Ismail Saibari is sidelined due to injury, while Ayoub El Kaabi, who scored twice against Canada, hopes to continue his strong form.

France's lineup features Kylian Mbappe, who has scored seven goals so far and aims to be the tournament's top scorer, alongside Michael Olise, who has been involved in eight goals in his last six national team matches. Deschamps started Dzeira Doua, who earned a penalty against Paraguay, in place of the injured Bradley Barcola. The match is a critical step for both teams in their quest for World Cup glory.