Mbappe scores after missed penalty as France beat Morocco to reach World Cup semi-finals

Kylian Mbappe missed a penalty but later scored a superb goal as France defeated Morocco 2-0 to reach the World Cup semi-finals. Ousmane Dembele added a second goal six minutes later, securing a last-four meeting with Belgium or Spain.

Mbappe's goal marked his 20th in the World Cup, making him the tournament's joint top scorer with eight goals and tying Hugo Lloris's record for most World Cup appearances for France. Despite a late knock to his ankle, coach Didier Deschamps expressed satisfaction with the team's progress, stating, "We're exactly where we wanted to be. We're taking another step forward today, finding ourselves in the final four once again."

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That’s three (semi-finals) in a row, it’s good. It seems logical and natural, but you still have to get the job done. It was tricky, the penalty... when it’s Kylian. He never has any doubts. But we’re exactly where we wanted to be. We’re taking another step forward today, finding ourselves in the final four once again. It shows we’re right there in the mix.

Morocco, aiming for a second consecutive semi-final appearance, struggled offensively, failing to register a shot on target until the 84th minute. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi acknowledged France's superiority, saying, "Today France were stronger but we are able to compete and progress and maybe eliminate them in four years’ time." Morocco is set to co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

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We are very disappointed, we wanted to advance. We have to recognise that France is a great team with excellent players. France had the better scoring opportunities. We lacked ideas and freshness, and we have to accept this defeat. Today France were stronger but we are able to compete and progress and maybe eliminate them in four years’ time.