Laurent Blanc's golden goal: The only one in World Cup history

The 1998 FIFA World Cup, hosted by France, witnessed a unique moment in football history: the first and only "golden goal" ever scored in the tournament. This decisive goal came from French defender Laurent Blanc during a tense Round of 16 match against Paraguay.

Paraguay's famously resilient defense had successfully stifled the French attack for the entire 90 minutes of regulation play. As the match entered extra time, France intensified its pressure. In one of the final attacking forays, Robert Pirès controlled a rebound on the right flank and delivered a cross into the penalty area. David Trezeguet headed the ball down, setting the stage for Blanc.

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Paraguay gave us more trouble than any other team in '98. It was probably the only match in the tournament that we didn't control. The goal was a great relief.

In the 114th minute, Blanc met the ball with a right-footed volley, beating Paraguayan goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert. This goal, under FIFA's then-new golden goal rule, immediately ended the match and secured France's progression towards their eventual World Cup title.

Years later, Blanc reflected on the intense encounter, stating, "Paraguay gave us more trouble than any other team in '98. It was probably the only match in the tournament that we didn't control. The goal was a great relief." When questioned about his presence in the opponent's penalty area, the central defender humorously responded, "I don't know, but someone had to take responsibility."

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I don't know, but someone had to take responsibility.