Mesmeric Zidane inspires France

Zinédine Zidane inspired France to defeat the FIFA World Cup favourites 1-0 and set up a semi-final against Portugal. The decisive goal came from Thierry Henry, who volleyed in a Zidane free-kick three minutes before the hour mark.

1998 repeat
It was the first time Brazil had lost a finals game since the 1998 showpiece, when they were beaten 3-0 by France at the Stade de France with Zidane scoring twice. Having coasted into the last eight of the present competition despite never hitting top gear, Carlos Alberto Parreira's side were unable to raise their game when it mattered and went out after only fleetingly threatening Fabien Barthez's goal.

Zidane dribble
By contrast, Raymond Domenech's players have improved with each game after draws in their opening two games saw them risk an early exit from the group stage. The 34-year-old Zidane, who retires at the end of the World Cup, produced one of the finest performances of his illustrious career, starting with a sumptuous statement of intent in the first minute as he turned out of two challenges and embarked on a probing run downfield.

Vieira released
The France captain showed off the full array of his skills, at one point beating Zé Roberto with his trademark 'roulette' spin move. He showed strength, technique and vision to release Patrick Vieira a minute before half-time, but the Juventus midfielder was halted by a late challenge from Juan.

Unmarked Henry
On 57 minutes Zidane whipped in a free-kick from close to the left touchline, and an unmarked Henry arrived at the far post to divert the ball past the helpless Dida. It was the first time Zidane had ever assisted an Henry goal for France, and symbolic of the side's new-found unity and cohesion.

Famous victory
Brazil tried to respond but found their efforts frustrated. Although Barthez looked nervous on crosses, he only had to make one save of note, from a low Ronaldo shot a minute from time, but the French fans were soon celebrating another famous victory against the most decorated side in international football.