Memories of 1998: Former French Team Press Officer Recalls Zidane's World Cup Outburst

Philippe Tournon, who served as the press officer for the French national football team, has revisited a significant moment from the 1998 World Cup. He shared his recollections of the team's Round of 16 match against Paraguay, which is set to be replayed in the 2026 tournament.

Tournon specifically remembered Zinédine Zidane's surprising display of energy and support from the sidelines. Despite being suspended for a previous red card incident, Zidane was seen jumping on the bench and encouraging his teammates. Tournon described this as a side of Zidane that was not typically known, suggesting the player felt some guilt over his earlier offense.

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The attitude of Zidane, which for many was a revelation, a surprise. Always reserved, head down... There, he was suspended and he jumped on the bench like a kid every time we had the ball and he exhorted his teammates. It was a Zidane we didn't know.

Zidane had received a two-match ban for an impulsive foul on Fuad Amin during the group stage match against Saudi Arabia. This suspension caused him to miss the subsequent game against Denmark. Tournon's long association with the French team began in 1983, and he has witnessed many of the team's historic moments.

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He was in the role of a spectator and must also have felt a little guilty about his bad gesture against the Saudi Arabian player.