FIFA 2022: France’s Rabiot and Upamecano Doubtful to Start in Semifinal Against Morocco
France’s Dayot Upamecano and Adrien Rabiot are shockingly lingering on the edge of being doubtful starters for France’s upcoming World Cup semi-final clash against Morocco.
France had earlier defeated England in a 2-1 neck-to-neck clash, where Harry Kane’s missed penalty led to the French victory after he failed to equalize the match. They are now looking forward to progressing to the finals after defeating Morocco.
Rabiot and Upamecano had played as starters in the match against England and had played their parts well in all games played in Qatar.
However, as per sources, they are now doubtful about starting their Wednesday clash after they missed their training sessions on Tuesday.
After complaining of a sore throat, Upamecano also missed his training session on Monday. Whereas Rabiot, owing to a cold, has opted out of training as reported.
The early goalscorer of their victorious match against England, Aurelien Tchouameni, was also amongst those who missed their training at the start of the week owing to a calf issue; however, he was soon back with the camp on Tuesday.
It is suggested that if Upamecano misses the semi-final, Ibrahima Konate will replace him and join Raphael Varane’s side to be the heart of the French defense.
Rabiot and Upamecano to miss the semifinal against Morocco
On the other hand, Rabiot will be replaced by Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana in case he is deemed unfit.
Morocco has, on the contrary, been in their highest spirits since their excellent victories against the giants Spain and Portugal, making them the first African nation to reach the top four of the FIFA World Cup.
The French front, however health issues they might be facing, is only two victories away from becoming the only defending champions since 1962 to keep their name carved as the World Champions in two back-to-back FIFA World Cups.
Speaking on the same, Varane, the French and Manchester United defender, said,
“We have a lot of experience and will not fall into the trap of thinking we’re favorites,” said the French defender.
“If Morocco has reached the semi-finals, it is not down to luck. They defend really well, and it is going to be a really difficult game.”
“It is up to us, with our experienced players, to push forward. We are going to have to fight really hard, and we will not think it is easy. “
“We have to give 100 percent and fight until the end. You have to earn a place in the final. “
