The 1998 FIFA World Cup, hosted by France, was a spectacular tournament that captured the hearts of football fans worldwide. It featured a total of 64 matches, making it one of the most extensive World Cups in terms of the number of games played.
The tournament began on June 10, 1998, with the opening match between Brazil and Scotland at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, a suburb of Paris. It concluded on July 12, 1998, with the final match at the same venue, where France faced Brazil once again.
The 64 matches were divided into several stages:
1. **Group Stage:** The tournament started with 32 teams divided into eight groups, labeled from Group A to Group H. Each group consisted of four teams, and they played a round-robin format. This stage comprised 48 matches, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout stage.
2. **Knockout Stage:** The knockout stage featured 16 teams that had progressed from the group stage. This stage included the Round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final. The knockout matches were crucial, as they determined the teams that would compete for the ultimate prize.
3. **Final:** The final match, held on July 12, 1998, saw the host nation, France, take on Brazil. It was a historic moment for French football, as they won their first World Cup by defeating Brazil 3-0 in a stunning victory at the Stade de France. Zinedine Zidane's remarkable performance in the final, where he scored twice with headers, is etched in World Cup history.
The 1998 World Cup left an indelible mark on football history, featuring memorable moments, outstanding individual performances, and a passionate display of talent from teams around the world. France's triumph as the host nation added to the tournament's significance and solidified its place in the annals of football lore.
This World Cup not only showcased the spirit of competition but also celebrated the universal appeal of football as a unifying force that brings nations and cultures together on the global stage. It remains a cherished memory for football enthusiasts, reminding us of the magic and excitement that only the World Cup can provide.
