Four proud men of contrasting appearances and demeanors, not to mention backgrounds and philosophies, face a date with destiny this week when they contest the World Cup semi-finals.
The World Cup is soccer's greatest spectacle. It's also a monthlong grind, and the fatigue is starting to show.
There's no better way for Zinedine Zidane to end his career than winning another World Cup for France.
Christoph Metzelder is just 25 and already he's Germany's senior defender.
The shiny, bald pate of goalkeeper Fabien Barthez. The uncatchable swiftness of Zinedine Zidane's feet.
France have suddenly woken up from a six-year nightmare and owe their World Cup progress to the faith of the coach who kept saying his ageing team could shine in Germany.
FIFA is investigating the role of Germany midfielder Torsten Frings plus Argentina defender Leandro Cufre and forward Maxi Rodriguez for their part in the fracas that followed Friday's World Cup quarter-final.
Portugal isn't exactly George Mason, though its soccer pedigree isn't much stronger than what the Patriots brought to college basketball's Final Four. Then again, surprise teams in the World Cup semifinals are hardly a surprise.
Barely a month ago, France was booed by its own fans, Zinedine Zidane looked like he could hardly walk, let alone run, and Les Bleus seemed headed for another early World Cup exit.
Hosts Germany beat Argentina in a penalty shootout to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup where they will play Italy, who cruised past debutants Ukraine 3-0.
Brazil will have some insider information when it faces France in the quarterfinals of the World Cup.
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