London, June 29 :

France striker Theirry Henry insisted that he did not cheat to help clinch his country’s World Cup win over Spain.

Spanish captain Carlos Puyol claimed Henry had dived to win the free-kick that led to France’s decisive second goal in Les Bleus’ 3-1 triumph on Tuesday.

Puyol was furious as Patrick Vieira headed France into the lead from Zinedine Zidane’s resulting set-piece, but Arsenal star Henry maintained he was fouled by the Barcelona defender.

He told BBC’s Match of the Day: “Mariano Perina was going to win the ball so I don’t know why Puyol cut across me, but he did. I don’t cheat.” Henry believes Raymond Domenech’s side could repeat their 1998 feat thanks to their indomitable team spirit.

Despite widespread rumours of unrest in the French camp before the tournament and suggestions the senior players were unhappy with coach, Henry is adamant his teammates are united in their desire to win the World Cup again. He added: “I think we have got a lot of stick, but we have shown that we are a team.”