Laurent Blanc's strike six minutes from the end of extra time, the first golden goal in a World Cup finals, secured the host country a thrilling 1-0 win and had an almost seismic effect on the Felix Bollaert Stadium. Blanc, a instant National hero after taking his place in history, admitted he had never liked the rule until now. ``I said I was against it when I heard it was going to be used in the World Cup, but I have changed my mind. Even though I believed we could win, I still feel the rule is a bit unfair.

``It's tough on the Paraguayan players, but we are through and I am happy.'' As the French players swarmed over Blanc on the touchline, faces cracked with relief and joy, the Paraguayans slumped to the ground.

``I saw some of the Paraguayan players crying at the end, and while I am pleased we won and feel we deserved it, it was difficult for the Paraguayans to lose like that,'' said captain DidierDeschamps. Coach Aime Jacquet said: ``I am pleased that at least we avoided penalties, penalties are a much crueller way to lose.''