NIZHNY NOVGOROD, Russia, July 6, 2018 (News Wires) - France edged into the semi finals of the World Cup as goals from Raphael Varane and Antoine Griezmann gave them a 2-0 win over Uruguay. Didier Deschamps' side can now look forward to a meeting with either Brazil or Belgium in the final four after this victory over difficult South American opposition. The absence of Edinson Cavani through injury ended up costing Oscar Tabarez's side who looked toothless for much of the game. Varane gave Les Blues the lead five minutes from half time, glancing home a header from a clever Griezmann free kick delivery. That was France's first effort on goal and in retrospect that blow was enough to knock out Uruguay. France managed the game well and added a second when Griezmann's shot from the edge of the box slipped through the hands of goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. It was an almighty blunder from the Uruguayan, but his side were second best throughout. France are a force heading into the tournament's semi finals.
