France will be locking horns against Morocco in the second semifinal of the FIFA World Cup 2022 at the Al Bayt Stadium on Wednesday. In either case, this will be a momentous occasion. Morocco are having a tournament that will be talked about for ages even if they falter in the semifinal stage. On the other hand, France are aiming to become the first team to defend their title successfully since Brazil in 1962.
In more ways than one, Morocco have already created history. They are the first African team to secure a berth in the semis and the fact that they will be against their former colonizers will add a bit of drama to this game. Make no mistake though that, on the pitch, the team that has the better skills and is able to control its nerves would prevail.
Who is the referee for the second semifinal match?
The Mexican referee Cesar Ramos will be officiating the second semifinal match between France and Morocco. Ramos has a lot of experience as he already officiated in FIFA World Cup, Olympic Games, and CONCACAF Gold Cup matches. In the ongoing edition, he has played the role of referee in three matches across the group stage and knockouts.
On Wednesday, Ramos will be supported by his companions Alberto Morin and Miguel Hernandez, and Venezuelan Jesus Valenzuela will be the fourth official.
Probable Starting XIs:
France: Hugo Lloris (GK), Theo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konate, Raphael Varane, Jules Kounde, Youssouf Fofana, Aurelien Tchouameni, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe, Olivier Giroud, Ousmane Dembele.
Morocco: Yassine Bounou (GK), Achraf Hakimi, Jawad El Yamiq, Achraf Dari, Noussair Mazraoui, Azzedine Ounahi, Sofyan Amrabat, Selim Amallah, Hakim Ziyech, Youssef En-Nesyri, Sofiane Boufal.