France-Morocco Quarterfinal: Opta expects a French edge as Hakimi–Mbappe rivalry ignites

France enter the World Cup 2026 quarterfinals as favorites against Morocco according to Opta’s simulations (about 61.7% win odds for France, 16.2% for Morocco, 22.1% for a draw leading to extra time), with kickoff on Thursday July 9 in Boston; the matchup rekindles the Mbappe–Hakimi friendship on opposing teams while Morocco chase a historic run after 2022, and the article also touches on other World Cup headlines from a high-profile halftime show to unrelated financial and visa matters tied to football.