How the mighty have fallen

France was on top of the world in 1998 when they won the World Cup in their home turf. They defeated Brazil 3-0 in that final.

Eight years on, that remains their last win in the World Cup. In fact the goals scored then also remain the last they have scored in a World Cup series - until today.

In 2002, they were outplayed and beaten by Senegal (1-0) and Denmark (2-0), and drew with Uruguay (0-0) – all without scoring a goal and handed over the grip of the trophy without a fight.

This year, they started in a similar form by drawing 0-0 with Switzerland. It is indeed a mystery as to why such a gifted team fails to perform as it did in 1998.

Today all that looked set to change when they met South Korea and Thierry Hendry gave them an early lead. They did not exactly play wonderful football but at least they played well to score and maintain the lead.

Alas, that was not to last long. Despite scoring at long last, victory nevertheless continues to elude them as South Korea drew level with 10 minutes to go.

Hopefully this talented team will put things right next week when they play Togo.