Jun 10 2011
The World Cup Final Of 1998
France 1998 was the final World Cup competition of the twentieth century and was the centre of many wonderful memories for soccer fans around the world . The host nation got what they craved in the end – Les Bleus triumphed . Often, people think of France when it comes to booking city breaks in Europe however, from July to August in 1998, soccer was omnipresent. The whole country was swept up in World Cup euphoria . France was after all the home of the tournament founder Jules Rimet, and they staged a fantastic summer of football .
Matches were staged across France with ten different stadiums hosting matches . Matches took place in various parts of France, including Saint-Etienne, Bordeaux and Paris. Soccer fans were also able to make the most of great channel tunnel prices before making way to the famous football stadiums . The France capital played host to many games, which include the opening game and also final match .
What made this event so special ? The Golden goal rule made its first and only World Cup Finals appearance . Essentially this was FIFA’s attempt to increase the tension in matches that went to extra time . Unfortunately, teams tended not to look for that one winning goal and instead defended what they had .
The final of the World Cup was recalled for controversy as well as great talent. Three Lions fans travelled from Dover to Calais with belief that they could win, however, they were out after losing the match to the mighty Argentina . The tournament final was a memorable match but unfortunately, it was for all the wrong reasons.
This was a final, which will always be remembered for the events leading up to the match . Brazil’s main player, Ronaldo, sparked one of the greatest mysteries in football history after his name was left out of the team sheet. Rumours circulated as to why the team’s most talented striker was excluded . A mental breakdown was one of the claims behind this .
In the end Ronaldo did start the game but produced a below par performance . Zizou scored two goals in the 3-0 win for Les Bleus . The country was celebrating for days and weeks after the historic win. It was truly a historic win .
