Didier Deschamps was given a reminder of France’s strength in depth, moments after his team finally booked their place in the World Cup final.
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Goals from Theo Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani ensured the reigning world champions will play Argentina in a big final in Qatar.
Les Bleus were made to work for their 2-0 win however, with Morocco ensuring they weren’t able to enjoy the same kind of second-half cruise Lionel Messi and Co. enjoyed on Tuesday.
In fact, until Muani came off the bench to score France’s second goal with just over 10 minutes left, Morocco were still in the tie.
Deschamps’ decision to bring Muani on for Ousmane Dembele was eventually the right one, leaving the richly talented Kingsley Coman on the bench.
It marked a change of approach from the France manager who had called upon the 26-year-old in each of their previous five matches in the tournament.
However, it took only 44 seconds for Deschamps to be vindicated with Muani scoring with his very first touch in the game.
But before joining the full-time celebrations with players on the pitch, Deschamps was forced to take on the role as mediator, with the frustrated Coman approaching his manager.
And while the conversation didn’t become aggressive, the disappointment from the Bayern star was clear to see.
Coman’s reaction goes a long way to explain why France are on the brink of making World Cup history this weekend. A win over Argentina will ensure the current holders become the first country since Brazil in 1962 to retain their crown.
And they go into that match without a number of players which would walk into almost any other team in the world. Paul Pogba, Benzema, Lucas Hernandez, Kimpembe, N’Golo Kante and Nkunku all missed the tournament, with France able to slide in other supreme talents.
“There’s emotion, there’s pride. Once again, it was an important step,” Deschamps said after his side’s victory.
“There’s still another one to go. We’ve been with the players for a month, it’s never easy, but it’s been a pleasure up to now.”
