Fernando Muslera’s howler gifted France a 2-0 win against Uruguay to make them the first country to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
Uruguay’s threat was diminished before a ball had been kicked as Edinson Cavani failed to warm up, ruling out his participation in Nizhzniy Novgorod.
Nonetheless, Oscar Tabarez named five Serie A players in his XI, while Juventus midfielder Blaise Matuidi was suspended for France.
Fernando Muslera’s howler gifted France a 2-0 win against Uruguay to make them the first country to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
Uruguay’s threat was diminished before a ball had been kicked as Edinson Cavani failed to warm up, ruling out his participation in Nizhzniy Novgorod.
Nonetheless, Oscar Tabarez named five Serie A players in his XI, while Juventus midfielder Blaise Matuidi was suspended for France.
Les Bleus were able to capitalise on the loss of Cavani, albeit with a workmanlike performance, as Varane headed home a free kick five minutes before half-time.
Hugo Lloris then pulled off arguably the save of the tournament, diving to his right at full stretch to push away a header from close range.
Nonetheless, any hopes of a Uruguayan comeback were fatally dashed by former Lazio goalkeeper Muslera, who spilled a punch on Antoine Griezmann’s speculative drive into his own net.
France will now face Belgium or Brazil in the last four, with the two sides locking horns later on Friday.
Uruguay 0-2 France
Varane 40, Griezmann 61
Uruguay: Muslera; Caceres, Gimenez, Godin, Laxalt; Nandez (Urretaviscaya 73), Torreira, Vecino; Bentancur (Rodriguez 59); Suarez, Stuani (Maxi Gomez 59)
France: Lloris; Pavard, Varane, Umtiti, Hernandez; Pogba, Kante; Mbappe (Mbappe 88), Griezmann (Fekir 90), Tolisso; Giroud
Referee: Pitana (ARG)