Published Jul 6, 5:19am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Jul 6, 5:19am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
The first of the crucial quarterfinals at the FIFA World Cup is set for Boston on July 9, as France and Morocco collide in a rematch of the semi-final from the 2022 tournament.
France have been well supported to win a second World Cup in three editions, but Morocco have been overlooked despite their excellent record throughout the competition.
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|
|---|---|
| France | -170 |
| DRAW | +294 |
| Morocco | +561 |
France's last World Cup under Didier Deschamps has largely been positive to this point, winning all five of their fixtures, and keeping clean sheets in their previous two.
However, a different side to their game was needed in the round of 16, as they battled to a 1-0 win against an aggressive Paraguay. Kylian Mbappe's penalty ultimately made the difference, but Deschamps was left frustrated with the officiating.
Mbappe is enjoying a remarkable World Cup, netting seven in five appearances. Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele have also registered multiple goal involvements.
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Mohamed Ouahbi's Morocco will be huge outsiders this week, but it is hard to overlook their chances based on their excellent tournament record.
The African nation won AFCON earlier this year, and they also became the first African nation to reach the semi-finals four years ago.
Morocco have proven their quality this summer already, holding Brazil to a draw and overcoming the Netherlands in the round of 32. They oozed class as they eliminated Canada on Saturday, with Azzedine Ounahi netting a brace.
Morocco are a better team than they were four years ago, and France are unlikely to have things all their own way on Thursday. Therefore, we could foresee extra time being required before the French ultimately make their quality count in the extra 30 minutes.
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Pick
Draw (+294)
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