Fullback from France The defending world champions led Morocco 1-0 at the break in their World Cup semifinal on Wednesday thanks to a goal from Theo Hernandez in the fifth minute.
Hernandez took advantage of a deflection and scored a stunning volley beyond goalkeeper Yassine Bounou at the far post to give the French the lead as they looked to become the first team to win the tournament again since Brazil 60 years ago.
Olivier Giroud, the greatest scorer in France’s history, came within inches of scoring again in the 17th minute when his thunderous shot hit the post.
The loss of center defender Nayef Aguerd during warm-up and captain Romain Saiss in the 21st minute dealt a double blow to Morocco’s hopes of being the first team from outside of Europe and South America to advance to the final.
But just before halftime, Hugo Lloris palmed away a bicycle kick from Jawad El Yamiq that would have given them an equalizer.
In the Sunday championship game, the winners will take on Argentina.
A statement of intent from the champions!
Theo Hernandez scores inside the first five minutes to hand France the lead 🎯
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