The last quarterfinal match of FIFA World Cup 2022 was played between France, the defending champions, and England.
France scored a goal each either half from open play. England’s goal came via a penalty and was sandwiched between the two goals by France.
An impeccable strike by French midfielder Tchouameni and England captain Harry Kane missing the second penalty awarded to England hogged the limelight.
The match featuring the two European powerhouses, with much focus on Golden boot favourite Mbappe’s speed and firepower, was exhilarating.
England managed to have more control of the midfield to create more chances, while France was more effective with the opportunities presented to them.
France had a commanding display in the first 20 minutes. With Griezmann and Dambele combining well on the right, France played with authority.
Following a beautiful build up, French midfielder Tchouameni sent a powerful long range shot to the left corner. England keeper Pickford, diving at full stretch was beaten for pace and placement.
We’re back underway for the second half!#ENG v #FRA#FIFAWorldCup | #Qatar2022
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 10, 2022
England settled after the goal and started putting a series of probing runs.
Henderson and Saka combined well in the right flank to trouble the French back.
Harry Kane forced a great save by French keeper Hugo Lloris in the 2nd minute. On a one-to-one, Kane was quickly closed down, and Kane’s shot hit his outstretched arm for a superb save.
Lloris made another save when Kane sent a long-range shot.
England had the better control following the first goal. Just before half-time, Bellingham had a long range shot which was tipped over the cross bar by Lloris.
The first half ended with France leading 1-0.
Shortly into the second half, Bukayo Saka, who had been playing well in the right side, was fouled by Tchouameni and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Harry Kane converted with a powerful shot to the right as Lloris went to the left.
England had found the equaliser.
GAME ON ♨️#ENG | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/yXEoTyCQln
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 10, 2022
France responded right away with Rubio’s long range shot which was saved by Pickford. Mbappe then created a half chance for Giroud, who could not get his shot on target.
In the 70th minute, Harry McQuire came close to giving England the lead but his header of a Henderson free kick hit the post.
Giroud had a close-range attempt save by a quick reaction from Pickford in the 77th minute. In the ensuing play following the corner, Giroud finally scored with a header into the near post.
What a tournament @_OlivierGiroud_ is having btw 🔥 pic.twitter.com/vxZ7SeB9mI
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 10, 2022
Searching for an equaliser for the second time in the match, England got a gift when Hernandez committing a silly foul on Mason Mount in the 80th minute. With the goal least in threat, Hernandez committed a blunder by shouldering Mount without any intent to play the ball.
On VAR check, the referee awarded a penalty in favour of England for the second time in the match.
Harry Kane, considered one of the best penalty takers, sent a powerful shot high above the cross-bar to miss the penalty.
England never recovered thereafter. They bow out while promising much, as always.
A valiant effort and performance, @England 🦁👏 pic.twitter.com/qghsuyHhKY
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 10, 2022
In a match where they could contain Mbappe, had more possession, two penalty kicks, 16 shots on goal with 8 shots on target, England could not pull off the match against France.
France’s midfield looked mediocre for the first time in a long time. Dambele looked uncomfortable in the second half, Rabiot was ordinary at best while Tchouameni literally cancelled his goal by conceding England the first penalty.
France’s attack looks complete, ably led by Grizmann. Mbappe and Giroud continues to be constant threats, one on the ground, the other in the air.
The defending champions France have reached the semi-finals where they will take on Morocco.
The aim for back-to-back World Cup trophy remains alive and kicking for France.
