Zinedine Zidane: France legend reveals he was injured vs Brazil in 2006 World Cup

Zinedine Zidane produced so many incredible performances in his career.

One of his most memorable displays came for France against Brazil in their 2006 World Cup quarter-final clash.

Brazil had a fearsome side at the time which featured many legends, including Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Roberto Carlos, Kaka and Cafu.

But they were taught a footballing lesson by a 34-year-old Zidane.

The Frenchman was absolutely incredible in the match. Brazil’s players couldn’t get near him as he dominated proceedings.

Thierry Henry scored the only goal of the game as he turned home a Zidane free-kick.

View Zidane’s incredible individual highlights from the match below…

Brazil VS France. When Zidane turned the World Cup into a street football match. pic.twitter.com/pF5R6JUTQ2

It’s now been 16 years since Zidane’s iconic performance. And, in an interview with L’Equipe to celebrate his 50th birthday, the legendary footballer revealed he was in fact injured during his masterclass.

He said: “I actually hurt myself against Spain (in the round of 16). I hurt myself by scoring the third goal at the end of the game. I had a lump on my thigh. Almost no one knew.

“I took exams. They told me that I’m not playing against Brazil… I say: ‘What? It’s out of the question that I can’t play against Brazil!’

“The medical staff did everything for me to play because I absolutely wanted to play this game. And I played!

“Every game could be my last. I had that in my head so much that it was impossible for me not to play against Brazil. I wanted to enjoy every second.”

Imagine producing such a performance when not even fully fit. That only emphasises how great his display was.

It remains one of the very best in World Cup history.

France eventually made it to the