France dominated and kept clean sheets in all three knockout matches of the 2026 World Cup. Coach Didier Deschamps' squad consecutively defeated Sweden 3-0, Paraguay 1-0, and Morocco 2-0, reaching the World Cup semi-finals for the third consecutive time. Previously, they were runners-up in 2022 and champions in 2018.

Mbappe (left) celebrates with teammates after France's 2-0 victory over Morocco in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals at Boston, US, on 9/7. *Photo: AP*

On Sportv's Selecao Copa program, host Andre Rizek, along with commentators Felipe Melo, Andres D'Alessandro, and Paulo Nunes, all expressed admiration for France's strength.

According to Rizek, France is demonstrating a rare dominance at a World Cup. "Even the Germany team that beat Brazil 7-1 in 2014 did not easily reach the semi-finals, struggling significantly against Algeria and France themselves," he commented. "In contrast, current France has faced almost no difficulties since the first half of their match against Senegal."

Rizek recalled Germany's journey to win the 2014 World Cup. In that tournament, the European representative consecutively defeated Algeria 2-1 in extra time in the round of 16, France 1-0 in the quarterfinals, overwhelmed Brazil 7-1 in the semi-finals, and then beat Argentina 1-0 with Mario Gotze's extra-time goal in the final in Rio de Janeiro.

Felipe Melo was also particularly impressed with the French team's performance. The former Brazil midfielder recalled that Morocco had drawn 1-1 with Brazil in the group stage and eliminated the Netherlands in the round of 16, underscoring the strength of France's recent opponent.

"The very Morocco team that France dominated today had previously outplayed Brazil," Melo commented. "This shows just how strong the French national team is. Mbappe is not only a professional phenomenon but also very mentally resilient. Despite missing a penalty in the first half, he remained unaffected and still scored in the second half."

Former Argentina international Andres D'Alessandro assessed France as the most convincing team in the 2026 World Cup. Former Brazil forward Paulo Nunes suggested that the European representative's success comes not only from individual quality but also from their tactical maturity.

"This is a team that transcends mere results. In every match, they demonstrate maturity and fluidity," Nunes remarked. "Even when facing challenges, they know how to control and dictate the game. Watching the French national team play in the World Cup is a joy to behold."

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi also conceded that France was too complete and deserved the win. However, the 49-year-old coach emphasized that Morocco will continue to improve and aim for revenge against France at the 2030 World Cup, a tournament Morocco will co-host.

Mbappe scored the opening goal.

Dembele sealed the 2-0 victory.

Hong Duy (via Globo)