World Cup: France Hands Belgium First Loss, Advances To Finals

France survives 1-0, will take on winner of England v Croatia.

BYKyle Rooney
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One half of the World Cup Finals is set, as France defeated Belgium today in the semifinals by the final of 1-0. In doing so, France handed Belgium their first loss of the tournament, and denied the Belgians their first ever trip to the World Cup final.

The lone goal came off a corner kick shortly after halftime, when Antoine Griezmann's cross found the head of Samuel Umtiti at the near post in the 51st minute.

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After winning Group C with a total of seven points, France defeated Argentina 4-3 in the Round of 16 and eliminated Uruguay last Friday by the final of 2-0. Today's victory over Belgium puts the French national team back in the World Cup final for the first time since 2006, when they suffered a loss to Germany. France last won the World Cup in 1998, which is also the only time they've ever hoisted the golden trophy.

Pogba, Mbappe, Giroud, Griezmann and co. will now await the winner of tomorrow's semifinal between England and Croatia. The World Cup Finals will take place on Sunday, July 15, at 11:00am ET. Belgium will take on the loser of England vs Croatia in the Third Place play-off on Saturday at 10:00 am ET.

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World Cup: France Hands Belgium First Loss, Advances To Finals
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