CLEAN : World Cup pressure mounts on remaining teams

The World Cup quarterfinals feature exciting matchups, with Argentina facing the Netherlands and Costa Rica making history by reaching the quarters for the first time. Controversy arose in the Netherlands vs Mexico match due to a disputed penalty. Brazil's emotional victory over Chile was marked by a tense penalty shootout. Colombia's James Rodriguez emerged as a rising star, leading the Golden Boot race. France and Germany advanced, overcoming Nigeria and Algeria, respectively. The final eight teams include a mix of European and American sides, with no European team having won in South America before.

What is significant about the French team's performance in the tournament?

What historical fact is mentioned about European teams in the World Cup?