France will face Argentina in the World Cup final after defeating Morocco 2-0 in an enthralling semi-final on December 14 to maintain their title defense and terminate the north Africans' lengendary run in Qatar.

Theo Hernandez scored for the holders in the fifth minute, giving them the perfect start they were hoping for at the Al Bayt Stadium In Qatar.

However, Morocco overcame severe setbacks and showed little regard for France's prestige, taking the game to them in a courageous effort that contributed to their brilliant image at the tournament.

France secured the outcome with a second goal 11 minutes from time as substitute Randal Kolo Muani, with a first touch after coming on, tucked in a shot at the back post.

With France's victory, the stage is set for a showdown between Mbappe, the next superstar of the world game, and Lionel Messi, the Argentine genius who is nearing the end of his international career.

The disappointment of Morocco's elimination was mitigated by the positive reception they received for making history as the first African and Arab nation to advance to the World Cup semi-finals. After Saturday's third-place playoff against Croatia, they will likely be celebrated as heroes upon their return home.