Lilian Thuram seems to save his best for the World Cup semifinals. Thuram produced a superb performance at the heart of France's defence in Wednesday's 1-0 win over Portugal, eight years after scoring twice to lead France to a 2-1 win over Croatia.
"It's my second final, I have to admit it's unimaginable," Thuram said. "The World Cup final remains a childhood dream. It's something crazy."
Thuram was the most surprised by his performance, especially since he never thought he'd play for France again after retiring from international soccer following France's quarterfinal exit to Greece at the 2004 European Championship.
Much of the credit for Thuram's show must go down to coach Raymond Domenech, who insisted Thuram return to the team in August 2005. Now he'll play against Italy on Sunday in the World Cup final.
"I was not supposed to be here. I refused to come back to the France team," Thuram said. "The coach picked me against my will. I tell myself that football is incredible."
Already the French appearance record-holder with 120 caps, Thuram is on the verge of another winners medal after helping Les Bleus win the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championship. Winning almost every header, closing down Pauleta, and leading the backline with authority, Thuram drew praise from teammates.
"We saw an incredible defensive performance tonight," France midfielder Patrick Vieira said. "When you see Thuram playing like that you feel you're indestructible."
France's defence was the backbone of its 1998 title, when Les Bleus conceded only two goals. Ahead of Sunday's final against Italy, France has allowed only two, and much of that is down to Thuram's increasingly assured understanding with centrehalf William Gallas.
Thuram said they will both need to stay strong against an Italian team featuring several of Thuram's Juventus teammates.
"Unfortunately, I know these players, and I know they are very strong," Thuram said. "It will be a very tough match against Italy, which is probably the best team in the tournament. At the start of the competition, I thought they would go very far."
