Hugo Lloris admits France 'suffered & were exhausted' during World Cup semi-final win
By Sean Walsh
France captain Hugo Lloris has insisted that it took a lot of physical and mental strength in order for his side to overcome Morocco and reach another World Cup final.
Les Bleus will have the chance to defend their crown against Argentina on Sunday after prevailing against the Atlas Lions in Wednesday's semi-final.
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Lloris pulled off some impressive saves to keep France ahead at Al Bayt Stadium, notably tipping Jawad El Yamiq's first-half overhead kick onto the post.
Speaking to beIN SPORTS post-match, Lloris said: "We suffered so much, we come out exhausted but satisfied with the work accomplished, we are giving ourselves a golden opportunity to bring the French team into the history of football, it's a second final in four years.
"We were strong, we suffered when necessary, not everything was perfect. We will have to put all the assets on our side for Sunday. It will be a great final, Argentina are a great team, with a player who marked the history of his sport [Lionel Messi] but we have arguments [why we can win]."
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Lloris tied Manuel Neuer's record of most World Cup finals appearances for a male goalkeeper in Wednesday's semi-final, taking his tally to 19.
He will become the first player in World Cup history to captain his nation to glory twice should France win Sunday's final.