Netherlands 1998
The Netherlands at France 1998 boasted one of the most talented squads in their history Dennis Bergkamp, Patrick Kluivert, Edgar Davids, Frank de Boer, and the brothers Ronald and Frank de Boer. Bergkamp's quarter-final goal against Argentina a sublime first touch, a second to set himself, and a third to score is widely regarded as one of the greatest goals in World Cup history. The 2-1 victory over Argentina was the highlight, but the semi-final against Brazil ended in a penalty shootout defeat after a 1-1 draw. The Dutch had been the better side for long stretches Kluivert equalising after Ronaldo's opener but once again, the shootout proved their undoing. The Netherlands finished fourth after losing to Croatia in the third-place match. Another glorious campaign ended without silverware but Bergkamp's goal against Argentina endures as one of football's purest moments.