How is the fate of France in the World Cup?

France were 90 minutes away on Tuesday from completing their worst ever performance at a major tournament, or restoring their tarnished reputation and performing a miraculous turnaround.

The 1998 champions, responsible for one of the biggest dramas in World Cup history, need a win with plenty of goals against hosts South Africa in their final Group A match and must hope that Mexico and Uruguay do not draw at the same time.

However, after boycotting a training session in support of Nicolas Anelka, sent home in disgrace for insulting coach Raymond Domenech at halftime of a 2-0 defeat by Mexico last week, it remains doubtful whether the France team can regroup. "Words would not help now, we need action," Domenech said before the uncertain battle at the Free State stadium.

South Africa, too, have plenty to fight for and can count on the wholehearted support of the crowd and an entire nation. All hope is not lost for France, however. French Sports Minister Roselyne Bachelot, who was dispatched on Monday to address the warring parties and galvanise wobbly troops, said she could feel another French revolt coming, but a positive one this time.