Al Khor, Dec 15: Darting runs. Key tackles. Timely interceptions. Calming passes.
Antoine Griezmann did it all for France on Thursday, and now he’s going to his second World Cup final.
Griezmann had exceptional moments in both penalty areas — and all parts of the field in between, really — to help France beat an impressive Morocco 2-0 in the semifinals at Al Bayt Stadium.
It was a compete showcase of a gifted player who has reinvented himself at this year’s World Cup. And he will now try to deny Lionel Messi, his former teammate at Barcelona, of a first World Cup title on Sunday.
Griezmann played as a winger at the 2014 World Cup, then was France’s key scoring threat in its 2018 title win. He’s now an all-purpose midfielder creating chances for his teammates and snuffing out opposing threats.
“Griezmannkante,” wrote Paul Pogba admiringly on his Instagram account after the final whistle.
Pogba and N’Golo Kante, a relentless ball recovery specialist, were the midfield heart of France’s last title-winning team and their absences in Qatar because of injury put more responsibility on the 31-year-old Griezmann.
It was an older, wiser Griezmann who reflected after being voted player of the match on how this semifinal win felt different to four years ago, when Belgium was beaten 1-0.
“Against Belgium, I cried,” Griezmann said. “I think now I am more focused. I am already focused on the final on Sunday. I try to keep my feet on the ground. I am more composed.”
When Morocco put France under severe pressure in the second half, Griezmann responded with tackles, headers and blocks.
All his boundless energy was needed before the win was sealed by substitute Randal Kolo Muani’s instant impact – and instant goal – in the 79th. (AP)
