France 1-0 Belgium

Belgium, in its first World Cup semifinal match ever, came out with extreme confidence and really went on the attack early on. As time passed France settled and looked more comfortable with the ball and really had better chances to grab a goal. It was a very even first half, Lloris and Courtois made some key saves to keep it 0-0 at halftime.

It was generally more of the same at the beginning of the second half, both teams being wasteful with their chances. Finally, in the 51st minute, France was able to break the deadlock with a header scored by defender Samuel Umtiti off a corner sent in by Antoine Griezmann.

While the Belgians desperately tried to find an equalizer, France had many chances to extend its lead on the counter attack. Kylian Mbappé did everything in his power to get Olivier Giroud a goal but he couldn't finish. Very typical of the former Arsenal “striker.”

Exhibit A:

Anyway, Hugo Lloris and the whole French defense were too much for the explosive Belgian team at the end. France will try to win their second World Cup title next Sunday July 15, against the winner of tomorrow’s match between England and Croatia.