Bergisch Gladbach, June 30:

The memories of the 1998 final between France and Brazil remain fresh.

And as the teams prepare to meet again in the quarter-finals on Saturday, players and coaches on both sides can’t escape talking about the historic game in Paris in which the host came out on top 3-0 at Stade de France.

“The image I have of the ‘98 final is one of being in a dream,” France defender Lilian Thuram said. “I told myself ‘It’s not real, it’s not real.”’ Thuram is one of 12 players in Germany — six from each team — who participated in the 1998 tournament.

“I’m out of words to talk about that match, it left a scar,” said Brazilian Ze Roberto, who was a reserve eight years ago. Even those who were not there still talk about it. I was really little, but it’s a sad memory,” 22-year-old Brazil striker Robinho said. “I hope the story will be different this time.”

Indeed, Brazil enters the match eager for a different outcome on Saturday in Frankfurt. A victory would keep alive Brazil’s hopes for a record sixth world title — and third in four World Cups.

France is trying to add to the 1998 title, and erase the embarrassment of being eliminated in the first round of 2002 in South Korea and Japan. This time, the French struggled in the group stage, drawing Switzerland and South Korea and advancing only after beating lightly regarded Togo. However, rallying for a 3-1 victory over Spain in the second round has boosted confidence.

Veteran midfielder Zinedine Zidane, who has said he will retire after this tournament, was key against Spain and seems to be peaking.