France captain Hugo Lloris has described his team's possible successful defense of the World Cup as a unique goal. "We know it's something very, very special that we can achieve. We all know that," said the 35-year-old goalkeeper in a video shared by the French Football Federation.

"We will remain calm and composed," said captain Lloris ahead of the French semifinals against Morocco on Wednesday (8 p.m. CET/ZDF and MagentaTV). The Équipe Tricolore wants to be the first team since Brazil 1962 to successfully defend the title.

"Now we are preparing well for the semi-final against Morocco. We need all our strength, all our energy," said Lloris. He was honored as France's all-time cap after beating England 2-1 with 143 caps. "Beating England in the quarter-finals of a World Cup will remain a special memory for me," he said.

Team-mate Antoine Griezmann was recognized for his 28th assist in the Équipe Tricolore shirt, making him the most. "There are still two games left, we can do it. Let's stay concentrated and focused and enjoy it," said the 31-year-old attacking player before the semi-final against Morocco.