Mbappé and Dembélé Propel France to 2026 World Cup Semifinals
France Advances with Solid Win Over Morocco
The 2026 World Cup quarterfinals saw France continue their unbeaten run, cruising past Morocco 2-0. This victory keeps Les Bleus perfect in the tournament, having won all six games without extra time.
Kylian Mbappé played a key role, scoring early in the second half and reclaiming the lead in the Golden Boot race over Lionel Messi. Both stars now have eight goals each, but Mbappé leads with more assists. Moments after Mbappé's goal, Ousmane Dembélé sealed the win with a crucial strike. This marks France's third consecutive World Cup semifinal appearance.
Mbappé was substituted late in the game after taking a knock but appeared to avoid serious injury. The French team will face the winner of the upcoming match between Belgium and Spain.
Spain Faces Belgium in Tight Quarterfinal Clash
Spain has impressed by scoring nine goals without conceding any, maintaining a spotless defensive record through six matches. Their goalkeeper, Unai Simón, boasts five clean sheets and has not allowed a single goal for 609 minutes.
Belgium eliminated the United States with a 4-1 rout in the Round of 16. Despite missing midfielder Amadou Onana due to injury, Belgium’s strategy against the U.S. press was effective, and they may employ similar tactics against Spain.
Spain has kept six consecutive clean sheets at this World Cup, a record for the tournament, while allowing the fewest quality shots. Still, Belgium’s midfield is strong, and coach Rudi Garcia has shown willingness to push hard late in matches, suggesting both teams could find the net.
England Prepares to Face Norway
England’s recent victory over Mexico marks their best away win at a major tournament since 1966. This sets up an intense quarterfinal against Erling Haaland’s Norway. England hopes this win sparks deeper progress rather than becoming just another memory.
Injury and Criticism Surround USMNT Star
Christian Pulisic’s performance at the World Cup has drawn sharp criticism from former USWNT star Carli Lloyd. Reports emerged that Pulisic suffered a bone bruise and microfracture in his right leg during the loss to Belgium, which partly explains his limited impact. Lloyd remains critical, citing Pulisic’s absence from last year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Viewership Milestone for USA-Belgium Match
The USA vs. Belgium game became the most-watched soccer match in U.S. history, attracting over 33 million viewers on Fox and an additional 12 million on Telemundo, totaling around 45 million across English and Spanish broadcasts. This signals growing interest in the sport nationally.
Mbappé Leads Golden Boot Race
Kylian Mbappé overtook Lionel Messi for the top spot in the Golden Boot competition after scoring against Morocco. Although both have eight goals, Mbappé holds the edge with three assists compared to Messi’s one. Mbappé also missed a penalty during the match, as did Messi, highlighting the ongoing battle between these two stars.
Despite an ankle injury that forced him off late, Mbappé celebrated with teammates postgame, hinting he should be fit moving forward.
Looking Ahead
France awaits the winner of the Friday encounter between Spain and Belgium, setting up what promises to be a thrilling semifinal. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland and Norway prepare to take on England, with all eyes on the remaining titans of this World Cup.
