France morocco

PARIS, Dec 14 (Reuters) - Supporters poured into Paris's freezing Champs-Elysees boulevard on Wednesday after a World Cup semi-final between France and Morocco which for millions tugged at the heartstrings, as "Les Bleus" won 2-0 to reach the final for a second time in a row. "We just want to celebrate our win and we can really feel it will get crazy," said student Kerene Massuka who came with a friend. "I am sad and proud at the same time", said Thomas Bregas, a young Franco-Moroccan wrapped in a Morocco flag. Fans were flanked by hundreds of police trucks securing the area as they let off fireworks and flares to the sound of honks and cheers. Crowds of supporters were seen entering the Christmas-decorated boulevard after the final whistle, where authorities were bracing for tens of thousands despite temperatures around 0 Celsius. France is home to a large Moroccan community, many of whom have dual citizenship. The stakes were high on both sides. Morocco had a shot at becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup final, but France are now poised to become the first team to retain their World Cup title in 60 years on Sunday. Speaking from Qatar, French President Emmanuel Macron said: "I want the French to now enjoy this simple form of happiness." He added that Moroccans had nothing to be ashamed of after an "extraordinary" World Cup journey. "Sunday is just a formality, the cup is already in France," said Karine, 28, who watched the game with friends in a gym in C...

For all Morocco's endeavour and spirit, France were more clinical and substitute Randal Kolo Muani ensured they will defend their crown against Argentina and Lionel Messi at Lusail Stadium on Sunday when he turned in Kylian Mbappe's deflected shot 11 minutes from time. Morocco also lost the clearly unfit Romain Saiss to injury before half-time but, roared on by their fanatical support, they came close to drawing level, especially when Jawad El Yamiq's overhead kick was tipped on to the post by France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. France, with Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate outstanding, kept their composure in the hothouse atmosphere of Al Bayt Stadium and had chances of their own, Olivier Giroud striking the post in the first half. Didier Deschamps' side always threatened on the break and so it proved as the lurking Muani finally broke Morocco's resistance late on with his first touch, 44 seconds after coming on, for his maiden France goal. • 'France win sets up the final and Messi-Mbappe duel many wanted' • 'No tears just pride' as Moroccan dreams shattered • World Cup Daily podcast: All the analysis after France beat Morocco to set up Argentina final France stay cool on road to glory France needed to keep their nerve to stay on course to become the first country to retain the World Cup for 60 years, following Brazil's triumphs in 1958 and 1962. They faced a wall of sound from Morocco's support, with ear-splitting whistles every time they had possession - and while it was n...