France's match winner Olivier Giroud feels more and more reminded of winning the title in Russia four years ago at the World Cup in Qatar.

"It reminds me of the mentality and dedication of 2018. This group deserves to get back that far," said the 36-year-old after Saturday night's hard-fought 2-1 win over runners-up England in Al's quarter-finals -Chaur. The French of head coach Didier Deschamps now meet Morocco in the round of four on Wednesday (20.00 CET).

attitude and happiness

The atmosphere in the dressing room of the Équipe Tricolore was splendid, as Giroud described it. "There was singing and dancing in the dressing room. The federation president Noël Le Graët came, Lilian Thuram and Claude Makélélé. It's wonderful to see these feelings in the locker room." Giroud and Aurélien Tchouaméni had given the French their next entry into a World Cup semi-final with their goals. England captain Harry Kane scored from the spot but missed another late penalty to make it 2-2.

"It's great. We have the quality in the team, but you also need the right attitude. Maybe we've had a bit of luck. We're enjoying it for now," said head coach Deschamps, whose team was defending their first world title in 60 years could create.

Germany's former world champion Toni Kroos praised the exchange of blows in the Al-Bait Stadium as the best game of this World Cup so far. Goalless Kylian Mbappé and Co. are clear favorites against Morocco, who are the first African team in history to reach a World Cup semi-final. "Morocco will be tough opponents, they are mentally strong," warned Giroud.