France midfielder Paul Pogba has dedicated the World Cup semifinal triumph over Belgium to the Thai football team which was rescued yesterday.

A group of 12 boys, aged between 11 and 17, and their football coach were freed following a huge rescue operation after spending 17 days trapped underground. Former Navy Seal Saman Gunan lost his life as part of the rescue.

Manchester United midfielder Pogba, who was vital for France in the centre of midfield, dedicated the victory to the Thai football team, who are known as the Wild Boars.

Accompanied by a picture of the 12 youngsters, Pogba wrote: "This victory goes to the heroes of the day, well done boys, you are so strong."

He added in French: "My thoughts are with the boys in Thailand."