France ’98 had the lot — great goals, big stars delivering skill and controversy, the host nation riding a wave of euphoria. But the biggest story was kept for the World Cup final itself.

What was the ‘moment’: Ronaldo’s World Cup final mystery

Which World Cup was it? France 1998

Country played for: Brazil

Brazil striker Ronaldo was the best player in the world at the time. The 21-year-old had enjoyed an unbelievable 34-goal season with Inter Milan and was targeting the Golden Boot having already scored four goals in the Selecao’s run to the final.

But when the team sheets were released, Ronaldo’s name wasn’t there. This was unthinkable. Was it a mistake? Was he injured?

Eventually, Ronaldo did play — but he was obviously not right and Brazil slumped to a 3-0 defeat.

What happened on the night has never really been cleared up. An investigation by Brazil’s national congress found that Ronaldo did have a serious seizure on the day of the game. The decision of not selecting the best player in the world for the World Cup final was one no one in the coaching set up was prepared to make.

But that’s not good enough for the conspiracy theorists …

Fellow striker Edmundo, who was due to play before Ronaldo’s return, has suggested it was down to the influence of sportswear giant and Brazil team sponsor Nike on the team selection.

Some say the team doctor was spotted crying after checking his patient, but the final diagnosis was not reliable, as Brazil were so desperate to get their star striker on the field.

One Brazilian newspaper claimed Ronaldo suffered a nervous breakdown due to the extreme pressure but that he was refused medication over doping fears.

Or maybe it was injections for a secret knee injury? Or a deal with FIFA to give Brazil a hosting gig? Or was he poisoned by the French?

Whatever it was, Ronaldo had to wait until the 2002 final to make amends.