The French national team's 2006 World Cup campaign represented a remarkable renaissance for a side that had stumbled at the previous tournament and qualified with difficulty. Under Raymond Domenech, Les Bleus embarked on a journey that would end in heartbreak but restore their status among world football's elite.
The Squad
Domenech called upon a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talents. The defensive line featured Lilian Thuram, William Gallas, and Eric Abidal. In midfield, the legendary Zinedine Zidane emerged from international retirement alongside Patrick Vieira and Claude Makelele. The attack paired Thierry Henry with David Trezeguet and Florent Malouda.
Group Stage Struggles
France's tournament began poorly. A goalless draw against Switzerland and a 1-1 result against South Korea left qualification in doubt. Only a 2-0 victory over Togo, with goals from Henry and Vieira, secured their place in the knockout rounds as group runners-up.
The sluggish start prompted questions about the team's aging core, but what followed silenced the critics.
Knockout Stage Brilliance
Against Spain in the Round of 16, France produced their finest performance in years. Ribery's early goal was canceled by Spain, but Vieira restored the lead before Zidane sealed a 3-1 victory with a late free-kick. The magician of Marseille had returned.
The quarter-final against Brazil was billed as a clash of legends: Zidane versus Ronaldinho, Henry versus Ronaldo. France dominated throughout, with Henry's first-half goal proving decisive in a 1-0 victory that eliminated the defending champions.
The semi-final against Portugal was tense but controlled. Zidane's penalty, won and converted by the master himself, sent France to the final with a 1-0 win.
Zinedine Zidane's Farewell Tournament
The 2006 World Cup marked Zidane's announced farewell to professional football. His performances throughout the tournament reminded the world of his genius. The Algerian-French midfielder controlled matches with his vision, technique, and leadership.
His volleyed goal in the 1998 World Cup final against Brazil had made him a legend. His performances in 2006 cemented his status as one of football's all-time greats. The tragedy of his final match - the red card for headbutting Materazzi - remains football's most discussed moment of the 21st century.
The Final Heartbreak
At the Olympiastadion, Zidane's chipped penalty gave France an early lead. Materazzi's equalizer preceded 80 minutes of tactical battle. Zidane's header was brilliantly saved by Buffon. Extra time seemed to be heading toward penalties when the fateful incident occurred.
Without their talisman, France lost the shootout when Trezeguet's penalty struck the crossbar. The team that had looked destined for glory finished as runners-up.
Legacy
Despite the final defeat, the 2006 World Cup restored French football's reputation. Players like Ribery, Malouda, and Abidal would form the core of future French sides, while the memory of Zidane's artistry continued to inspire generations.
Learn more from the French Football Federation (FFF) and L'Equipe.