France Reaches Final After Beating Morocco 2-0 in an Intense Match
AL KHOR, Qatar -- France set up a heavyweight World Cup final against Argentina after an early goal by Theo Hernandez and a late one from Randal Kolo Muani ended battling Morocco’s dream run via an action-packed 2-0 semi-final victory on Wednesday.
In the fifth minute, full back Hernandez skillfully headed the ball into the net, becoming the first player to score against Morocco in the tournament. Despite a few impressive moments, the defending champions only displayed their exceptional abilities sporadically.
Soccer Football – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 – Semi Final – France v Morocco – Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor, Qatar – December 14, 2022 France’s Randal Kolo Muani celebrates scoring their second goal as Morocco’s Yassine Bounou and Yahya Attiat-Allah react. Photo: Reuters
The Moroccan team faced significant setbacks due to early injuries suffered by two crucial defenders. However, they managed to pose numerous challenges for their opponents, with goalkeeper Hugo Lloris making an outstanding save to deny Jawad El Yamiq’s overhead kick just before half-time. Throughout the second half, the Moroccan team showed great determination, constantly pushing forward in their pursuit of victory.
Unfortunately, despite their impressive performances against top teams like Belgium, Spain, and Portugal, the team could not create enough clear opportunities for an equalizing goal. As a result, their remarkable run, which also marked them as the first African team to reach the semi-finals, came to an end.
Soccer Football – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 – Semi Final – France v Morocco – Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor, Qatar – December 14, 2022 Morocco’s Jawad El Yamiq shoots at goal. Photo: Reuters
In the 79th minute of the game, France secured victory with a remarkable display of skill by Kylian Mbappe. Through an impressive dribble, Mbappe successfully set up Kolo Muani, who, with his first touch less than a minute after joining the match, scored the decisive goal.
France will be highly elated as they achieved the remarkable feat of being the first defending champions to advance to consecutive finals since Brazil in 2002. They are now eagerly awaiting Sunday’s highly anticipated showdown, where they will strive to join the ranks of Brazil (1962) and Italy (1938) as the third team to successfully defend their title.
AL KHOR, Qatar: France secured a place in the World Cup final against Argentina with a commanding 2-0 semi-final victory over Morocco. The French team took an early lead with a goal from Theo Hernandez and sealed the win with a late goal from Randal Kolo Muani, ending Morocco’s impressive run in the competition.
In the early stages of the match, Full back Hernandez displayed exceptional athleticism as he gracefully elevated to score the first goal against Morocco, becoming the first player from an opposing team to accomplish this in the tournament. Despite this moment of brilliance, the defending champions only sporadically showcased their true abilities throughout the game.
Soccer Football – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 – Semi Final – France v Morocco – Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor, Qatar – December 14, 2022 France’s Randal Kolo Muani celebrates scoring their second goal as Morocco’s Yassine Bounou and Yahya Attiat-Allah react. Photo: Reuters
The Moroccan team faced initial obstacles with the unfortunate early injuries to two crucial defenders. However, they managed to bounce back and create numerous difficulties for their opponents. Notably, Hugo Lloris made an outstanding save in the first half, preventing Jawad El Yamiq’s impressive overhead kick. Moreover, the underdogs continuously pressed forward during the second half, causing significant pressure.
Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, they were unable to create a clear opportunity to level the score. This marked the end of their impressive streak, which included notable wins against Belgium, Spain, and Portugal, and also made them the first African team to reach the semi-finals.
Soccer Football – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 – Semi Final – France v Morocco – Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor, Qatar – December 14, 2022 Morocco’s Jawad El Yamiq shoots at goal. Photo: Reuters
In the 79th minute, France secured their victory through a spectacular play by Kylian Mbappe, who skillfully dribbled past his opponents. Mohammad Kolo Muani then made an immediate impact by scoring the winning goal with his first touch, less than a minute after entering the field.
France will experience great relief as they become the first defending champions to reach consecutive finals since Brazil in 2002. They can now eagerly anticipate Sunday’s highly anticipated showdown, where they will aim to become the third team in history to successfully defend their title, following in the footsteps of Brazil (1962) and Italy (1938).
Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday joined Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani and other dignitaries in the inauguration of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
AL RAYYAN, Qatar — A late penalty by veteran striker Gareth Bale earned Wales a 1-1 draw with the United States on Monday to avoid a losing return to the World Cup after 64 years in a fascinating Group B encounter at a raucous Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.
LUSAIL, Qatar — France forward Kylian Mbappe put in a performance for the ages in the World Cup final against Argentina, but it proved bitter-sweet as he left the game heartbroken, a hat-trick not enough to avoid defeat against Argentina who prevailed in a shootout.
Vietnamese martial artists secured their third gold medal at the World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships in Hong Kong. This triumph occurred on Tuesday, marking a significant achievement on the fourth day of the prestigious event.
Hanoi, a city that thrives on its vibrant cultural tapestry, celebrates its diverse connections all year round. From vibrant festivals to intimate cultural exchanges, the city comes alive with a myriad of traditions and customs, offering a unique glimpse into its rich heritage.
Da Lat, a picturesque city nestled in Vietnam's Central Highlands, offers a serene escape for travelers seeking rejuvenation and a respite from the mundane. Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and a burgeoning focus on wellness tourism, this idyllic destination promises to enchant and revitalize the weary soul. Imagine yourself surrounded by lush pine hills, pristine lakes, and a gentle breeze carrying the scent of wildflowers - a true haven for nature enthusiasts and those in pursuit of holistic well-being.
Hanoi, with its unique and diverse culinary scene, has rightfully earned its reputation as a food lover's paradise. The city's food culture offers a delightful array of flavors and dining experiences that leave a lasting impression on all who visit. From its famous street food to fine dining, Hanoi's culinary delights are truly unforgettable.
Hanoi's 2024 celebrations were a testament to the power of music to connect people. The vibrant city came alive with the sound of melodies, as diverse as the people who call Hanoi home. It was a festival of unity, a reminder that despite our differences, we are all bound by a common thread - our love for music.