World Cup: France are through to the final after beating Belgium 1-0

World Cup: France are through to the final after beating Belgium 1-0
Copyright REUTERS
By Jordan Jones
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France will play in Sunday's World Cup final after beating Belgium 1-0.

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France will play in Sunday's World Cup final after beating Belgium 1-0.

Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti scored the only goal early in the second half to give Les Bleus the victory.

It's the second final that France will play in consecutive tournaments after being on the losing side of the European Championships two years ago.

Eden Hazard had the game's first real chance as his curling effort was headed behind by Varane. Toby Alderweireld then forced Hugo Lloris into an instinctive save.

Up the other end, Giroud had a diving header which just passed the post. The best chance of the half fell to Pavard after he was played in by Mbappe, but Courtois blocked with his body.

Five minutes into the second half and Umtiti opened the scoring, as his header from a corner beat Courtois.

Fellaini almost levelled things up but his header went agonisingly wide.

Tolisso forced Courtois into a save in stoppage time, in a half that France managed well after their goal. 

5 Things we learned

Mbappe dazzles

The 19-year-old may not have been on the score sheet today but he played with complete confidence.

A total of six chances created, including a delicate backheel to Giroud, allowed Mbappe to be one of the stars of the show.

A chance at redemption

France can erase their European Championship heartbreak from two years ago with a World Cup final victory on Sunday. With all the stars in their team, it could be Les Bleus' time this weekend.

Golden Generation miss out again

It's yet another missed opportunity for Belgium as they miss out on a major final. After being knocked out in the quarter-finals of the last tournament, this was Belgium's real chance for glory with such an array of attacking talent.

Henry on the losing side

French football legend Thierry Henry was in the Belgium dugout as an assistant coach against the country he won a World Cup with. But this time he was on the losing side.

Pogba steps up

It was a disciplined performance from Paul Pogba in this game. He was calm on the ball and played a number of key passes.

French gutsy again

With all the talent in the French squad, attractive football should be associated with them, but throughout this tournament they've not looked like they've come out of second gear.

In this game though, they worked hard for it and resolute defending earnt them the victory.

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