France 1998 World Cup Final Edition – Home

The year 1998 holds a special place in the history of French football, as it was the year France not only hosted the FIFA World Cup but also triumphed in the tournament, securing their first ever World Cup victory. This achievement marked a significant milestone in the country's football history and had a profound impact on the nation's sporting culture.

Under the management of Aimé Jacquet, the French national team, often referred to as "Les Bleus," entered the tournament with a talented and diverse squad. The team was a mix of experienced players and rising stars, including the likes of Zinedine Zidane, who was at the peak of his prowess, Thierry Henry, a young forward who showcased his exceptional talent, and Didier Deschamps, the team captain known for his leadership and tactical acumen.

France's journey in the 1998 World Cup was marked by solid team performances, tactical discipline, and moments of individual brilliance. The group stage saw France advance comfortably, but it was in the knockout stages that the team truly shone. Notable matches included a dramatic quarter-final win against Italy, decided by a penalty shootout, and a tense semi-final against Croatia, where Lilian Thuram scored both goals in a 2-1 victory, his only international goals ever.

The final, held on July 12, 1998, at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, was a historic moment. France faced Brazil, the defending champions and favorites. The match turned into a celebration for the French team, with Zidane scoring twice with headers from corner kicks in the first half. A third goal by Emmanuel Petit in injury time sealed a 3-0 victory. This win was more than just a sporting triumph; it was a unifying moment for the nation, celebrated for its multicultural "Black, Blanc, Beur" (Black, White, Arab) team composition.

The 1998 victory had a lasting legacy in France, inspiring a generation of players and elevating the status of football in French culture. It also established France as a major force in international football, a status they have maintained in the years since.