FIFA World Cup: Records scripted by France
France are considered to be one of the favorites to win this edition of the World Cup. However, the European giants have won the coveted trophy only on one occasion in 1998. They have been runners-up once, back in 2006. 2018 World Cup in Russia saw them qualify for the round of 16 after they topped their group. Here we look at their records.
France have won two bronze medals
France have qualified on 15 occasions for the World Cup out of 21 times, including the 2018 edition. In these 15 editions, France have gone on to qualify for the knock-outs a total of 9 times. Out of 62 games in World Cups, France have won 30 encounters. They have won the bronze medal twice besides finishing fourth in 1982.
Three knock-out progressions in four editions
France have now qualified for the knock-out stages for the third time in the last four editions. They drew against Denmark, on Tuesday, to make it to the round of 16 and will face Argentina next. In 2006 they finished 2nd, followed by a first round exit in 2010. In 2014, they reached the quarter-finals before losing to Germany 0-1.
Individual records of the French players
Fabien Barthez and Thierry Henry have the most appearances for France in World Cups (17). Just Fontaine has scored the highest number of goals for France (13). Interestingly, all his goals came in 1958. He is followed by Platini, Zidane and Henry (5). Henry has featured in the most number of World Cups for France (4). Paul Pogba received the Young Player award (2014).
Golden men Zidane and Barthez
Zinedine Zidane was awarded the FIFA Golden Ball award for his stupendous campaign in the 2006 World Cup. Goal-keeper Barthez won the Golden Glove in 1998. France also won the award for the Most Entertaining Team in 1998.
