France playmaker Zinedine Zidane said the 1998 winners had confounded their doubters after defeating Spain 3-1 to reach the World Cup quarter-finals on Tuesday.
"It was a celebration today. The Spanish made it very difficult for us. The adventure continues. We were very well prepared for this match," said the 34-year-old, who will be retiring after the tournament.
"We wanted to accomplish something and show the people that we had the qualities even if in the group stage there were difficult matches."
France now play Brazil in the quarter-finals on Saturday in Frankfurt, a repeat of the 1998 final in which Zidane scored twice in a 3-0 French win.
"That is a memory for the French people," added Zidane.
"But this quarter-final has to be played. We'll be prepared for it. We're all very happy to be in it."
France coach Raymond Domenech saluted his side after they recovered from going behind to David Villa's 28th minute penalty, hitting back with goals from Franck Ribery, Patrick Vieira and Zidane.
"It was very tough for the players. It was a remarkable match in every way. We may have a team of old men but we know how to be patient," said Domenech.
"Younger people run out of breath. There's something exceptional waiting for us, unique emotions."
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