Every FIFA World Cup Winner Ranked From Worst To Best

There are several ways to demarcate which teams are “greater” than others. And whilst there is no finite or correct method, the simple ‘names on a team sheet’ approach often helps rank sides of similar quality. This is certainly the case for the France 98 side.

Thuram, Desailly, Zidane, Djorkaeff and even the youthful appearances of Henry, Pires, Trezeguet and Vieira exemplify the almost unparalleled strength of the French squad.

However, having stormed through the Group Stage, France’s 1-0 win over Paraguay, 0-0 draw and subsequent penalty shootout victory over Italy, as well as their tight 2-1 win over tournament newcomers Croatia, hardly fulfilled the potential of the talented squad.

The 3-0 victory in the final, whilst being overshadowed by Ronaldo’s controversial and subpar performance for Brazil due to a pre-game seizure, did however show the ability, skill and power of the French side.

Given the influence of French players over the last 20 years on the European game, it remains staggering that this was Les Bleus first World Cup title