The 2002-04 period was defined by Zinedine Zidane's status as a certified genius and the creative heartbeat of the French national team. His elegance and vision were most famously on display during Euro 2004, where he produced a masterclass in the opening match against England, scoring a sensational free-kick and a clinical penalty in stoppage time to secure a dramatic victory. Throughout this era, Zidane’s masterful ball control and ability to dictate the tempo of the game cemented his legacy as a national icon and one of the world's most elite playmakers.