France vs Morocco: Predicted FIFA World Cup 2026 Lineups

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals are set for an electrifying start as defending champions France prepare to take on the formidable Moroccan squad. This heavyweight encounter, a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semi-final, is scheduled for Friday, July 10, 1:30 AM IST, at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, United States. Will Kylian Mbappe Play in France vs Morocco FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarterfinal Match?.

Didier Deschamps' Les Bleus have been in scintillating form, boasting a perfect record of five wins from five matches, scoring 14 goals and conceding just two on their path to the last eight. They topped Group I, thrashed Sweden in the Round of 32, and secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the Round of 16.

Morocco, under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, have equally impressed, emerging as African champions and making history with back-to-back World Cup quarter-final appearances. The Atlas Lions finished second in Group C with seven points, overcame the Netherlands in a thrilling penalty shootout in the Round of 32, and then emphatically defeated Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16. They are currently on an unbeaten run of five matches in the tournament.

France Team News & Predicted XI

France manager Didier Deschamps is expected to stick largely with the core that has delivered consistent results. While Aurélien Tchouaméni remains sidelined with a thigh injury, Manu Koné is poised to deputise alongside Adrien Rabiot in midfield. Marcus Thuram, recovering from a calf problem, is likely to be available from the bench. Mike Maignan will guard the net, supported by a robust backline featuring Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, and Lucas Digne.

Upfront, the attacking quartet remains unchanged, with Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and Bradley Barcola providing support to captain and leading goal scorer Kylian Mbappé.

France Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan

Defenders: Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, Lucas Digne

Midfielders: Manu Kone, Adrien Rabiot

Attacking Midfielders: Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola

Forward: Kylian Mbappé

Morocco Team News & Predicted XI

Morocco faces one significant forced change, with key attacking player Ismael Saibari a major doubt due to a hamstring injury sustained against Canada. Soufiane Rahimi, who scored as a substitute in the last match, is expected to lead the line in his absence. Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riad, who missed the last-16 tie, is hopeful of returning to partner Issa Diop in central defence. Captain Achraf Hakimi will spearhead the defence, with Yassine Bounou between the sticks.

The midfield is set to feature Ayyoub Bouaddi and Neil El Aynaoui, with Brahim Díaz, Azzedine Ounahi, and Bilal El Khannouss providing creative impetus.

Morocco Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou

Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Issa Diop, Chadi Riad, Noussair Mazraoui

Midfielders: Ayyoub Bouaddi, Neil El Aynaoui

Attacking Midfielders: Brahim Díaz, Azzedine Ounahi, Bilal El Khannouss

Forward: Soufiane Rahimi

Key Players to Watch

For France, Kylian Mbappé remains the focal point, driving the Golden Boot race with seven goals. His blistering pace and clinical finishing make him a constant threat. Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, with his significant assists tally, add immense creative firepower.

Morocco will rely heavily on the leadership and attacking prowess of right-back Achraf Hakimi, who has been a creative hub for the Atlas Lions. Playmaker Brahim Díaz and goal-scoring midfielder Azzedine Ounahi will be crucial in unlocking the French defence. Kylian Mbappe Racism Row: Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla Calls Footballer 'Son of a B***h' After Refusing To Apologise For Racist Remarks (Watch Video).

Head-to-Head Record

France holds a dominant record against Morocco, winning four of their six encounters, with two draws. Their most recent and only competitive meeting was the 2022 World Cup semi-final, which France won 2-0.

This quarter-final promises to be a captivating tactical battle between two in-form teams with contrasting styles, as both aim for a coveted spot in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 09, 2026 05:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).