Moussa: "It would be special for Hugo to lift the World Cup"

Moussa Sissoko would love to see his compatriot and team-mate Hugo Lloris lift the World Cup.

Captain of Spurs and France, Hugo will proudly lead his side again in the semi-final against Belgium in St Petersburg this evening (7pm UK).

In the Red Devils' corner, his team-mates and friends Toby Alderweireld, Mousa Dembele and Jan Vertonghen.

Moussa, capped 53 times by France and part of their qualifying campaign, would love to see Hugo take the ultimate honour in football and lift the trophy on Sunday – when he could well face another five team-mates if England overcome Croatia on Wednesday night.

“It would be special for Hugo and I would be very happy for him because he deserves it,” said Moussa, back at Hotspur Way for the start of pre-season training this week.

“He’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world. If he wins the World Cup it would be great for him and the Club.”

The last time France and Belgium faced-off was in 2015, resulting in a 4-3 win for Belgium.

Moussa says tonight’s potential classic is a hard one to call.

“It’s difficult to say who will win,” he said. “It’s the small details that can decide this type of game - a set piece, a little mistake, one key player making the difference like Mbappe, Pogba or Hazard.

“These two teams have good players with good talent but of course I will support France. I wish them good luck. I’m sure everyone will enjoy this game.”

Moussa featured 47 times for us in all competitions last season and earned his last cap for France in October, a 2-1 win against Belarus as Didier Deschamps’ men topped their qualifying group. He made seven appearances in the qualifying campaign.

Ultimately, he missed out on Russia – so how has he found watching the action?

He added: “At the beginning it was tough because, of course, I wanted to play in the World Cup, but everything happens for a reason. I wish France all the best.”