France and Morocco played a nil‑nil opening period in their World Cup 2026 knock‑out match. France nearly scored early after a penalty was awarded, with Kylian Mbappé taking the spot only for the shot hit the woodwork. The Moroccans remained compact all through the period. The lack of a goal kept nerves high on both sides. Referee Facundo Tello blowed many whistles, a reputation already tarnished from earlier games. French fans shouted more fiercely after the missed penalty. Both teams walk off the pitch goal‑free. A tightly contested second half appears probable. Millions watch from their sofas in homes worldwide.