Every FIFA World Cup Ranked From Worst To Best
13. South Korea / Japan 2002
The 2002 World Cup was groundbreaking in bringing the tournament to Asia with the exploits of co-hosts Japan and South Korea among the notable highlights.
Japan bowed out in the second round but South Korea made it all the way to the semi-finals, much to the delight of the home support.
Their success was not without some controversy, however, with both Italy and Spain dumped out in the knockout rounds after falling foul of some dubious refereeing decisions.
The big story was once again Brazil and the redemption of Ronaldo. Boasting a side featuring the likes of Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and Roberto Carlos, the Seleção won seven out of seven to claim the trophy.
Ronaldo was the star of the show and top scorer with eight goals, including both in the 2-0 win over a decidedly average Germany team in the final, to banish memories of France ‘98. Yet despite the impressive nature of their win, the feeling remains that Brazil were rarely tested with pre-tournament favourites like Italy, Portugal, France and Argentina all failing to impress.
England came closest, having taken a 1-0 lead over Brazil in the quarter-finals before a Rivaldo equaliser just before half-time set the stage for Ronaldinho to bag the winner via an infamous David Seaman clanger.