1 July 2006
by FIFAworldcup.yahoo.com

France have booked their place in the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ semi-finals at the expense of holders Brazil, this after a Zinedine Zidane-inspired 1-0 win for Les Bleus in Frankfurt set up a last-four clash with Portugal.
Thierry Henry's 57th-minute volley was the game's solitary, all-important goal, and with Raymond Domenech’s side inspired by a vintage showing from Zidane, Brazil could have few complaints at the final whistle.

France now complete an all-European line-up in the tournament's semi-finals, with their clash against England’s conquerors Portugal scheduled for 5 July in Munich, a day after Germany and Italy do battle in Dortmund.

1': Zidane produced some excellent footwork in the opening seconds of the match. Sporting golden boots, he spun away from the attentions of the Brazilian midfielders, but over-hit a pass meant for Thierry Henry.

57': Just three minutes after being denied, Henry broke the deadlock. A free-kick from Zidane was floated into the box and the Arsenal striker was left unmarked to steer a right-footed volley into the net.

France fully merited this victory, orchestrated by the superb Zidane, whose performance was well worthy of the Budweiser Man of the Match Award. The 34-year-old was simply sensational in this match, supplying an inch-perfect cross for Henry's goal and showing a superb range of passing and skills throughout the 90 minutes.