The defending champions got off to a perfect start at Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor courtesy of an early goal from Theo Hernandez before substitute Randal Kolo Muani doubled their lead late in the contest.

Seeking to become the first back-to-back winners of the tournament since Brazil managed the feat in 1958 and 1962, France got off to the ideal start against the first-ever African semi-finalists at a World Cup with a goal in the fifth minute.

After Antoine Griezmann ran into the box, a shot from Kylian Mbappe was blocked by Achraf Hakimi, before a follow-up Mbappe effort fell kindly for Hernandez who steered home to make it 1-0.

France threatened to double their advantage in the 17^th minute when Olivier Giroud ran through on goal before unleashing a thunderous shot, which cannoned off the post.

Morocco had a chance to cut the deficit in spectacular fashion through an overhead kick from Jawad El Yamiq, whose effort was denied by a combination of France keeper Hugo Lloris and the woodwork.

France secured their place in the final with ten minutes remaining as just after his introduction Kolo Muani pounced from close range after an Mbappe effort, following some neat build-up, was deflected towards the back post, allowing the substitute to score his first international goal.

Morocco were denied a consolation deep in stoppage time when Abderrazak Hamdallah’s strike was cleared from in front of the goalline by Jules Kounde.

Victory for France means they will face Argentina in the final at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday (December 18), in a repeat of one of the standout matches from the 2018 tournament in Russia, when France won 4-3 at the round-of-16 stage.

Meanwhile, Morocco will aim to secure third place when they meet 2018 runners-up Croatia in the third place playoff, due to be held on Saturday (December 17) at the Khalifa International Stadium.