On Wednesday evening, France will face Morocco in a World Cup semi-final with an added twist....CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
Didier Deschamps’ side has defied whispers of discord, a slew of injuries, and the curse of reigning champions to reach the final four, surviving a spirited quarterfinal comeback from England.
Deschamps made just one substitution in France’s 1-0 victory over England at the Al Bayt Stadium on Saturday. The World Cup-winning manager is unlikely to make any changes to his starting lineup, which has escaped injury and suspension.
Morocco enters this historic semi-final with a limp. Noussair Mazraoui and Nayef Aguerd both missed out on the quarterfinals, while Romain Saiss made it through 50 minutes before being stretchered off.
Mazraoui was sidelined due to illness and hip discomfort, but the Bayern Munich fullback could return by Wednesday night, though Yahya Attiyat Allah shone as his replacement.
Aguerd is also hoping to return from a groin injury. The West Ham centre-back reportedly wanted to play against Portugal but wasn’t deemed fit enough, a diagnosis that could change after another four days of rest.
Walid Cheddira will not play after receiving two yellow cards in stoppage time against the Portuguese.
KICKOFF TIME: France versus Morocco match will go down on Wednesday at 8PM Nigerian time.
