At Manila Montet, while working on our club’s social media and marketing, we sometimes come across old football matches. The skill, the tactics, the history—it’s always fascinating to watch. Recently, one of us asked a fun but intriguing question:
“What if the 1998 World Cup-winning France team, in their current physical condition, played against a young, professional club team in the Philippines today?”
Just to be clear, we’re NOT talking about the Philippine national team which would win easily but rather an average club-level team from the local league!
At first, the debate was lighthearted, but soon, opinions clashed. Some believed France 98’s football intelligence and technique could still keep them in the game, maybe even grinding out a draw. Others argued that over 90 minutes, fitness would be the deciding factor—many of the France 98 legends are now in their 50s, and while some have stayed in shape, others have not.
Our predictions ranged from:
A total domination by the Filipino club team (one even guessed 7-0!)
A hard-fought win for France 98 if they manage to slow the game
But the most common prediction?
A 3-1 win for the younger, fitter local club team.
We imagined France 98 holding on for a 1-1 first half, using their superior football IQ, but by the second half, fatigue would set in, and the younger team would take control.
So, what do you think? Would the legends still stand a chance today? Let us know!