Senegal were a sensation, with Liverpool new boy El-Hadji Diouf a star, beating holders France in the opening game and making huge statements on behalf of African football before losing in the quarter-final to an excellent Turkey side.
But the biggest surprise of all came from South Korea, brilliantly led by Guus Hiddink and inspired by the 'Be The Reds' fanatics who turned every game into sporting theatre.
Their achievements may have been down-graded by the bleatings of Italy and Spain - who admittedly had grievances over poor decisions - but their graceless exits should not be allowed to damage Korea's achievement.
Ahn Jung-Hwan created one of the World Cup's most emotive moments when he scored the Golden Goal winner against Italy, the player almost overcome in the emotion of the moment.
England goalkeeper David Seaman's tears after his error in the quarter-final defeat against Brazil will be another image that will live on.
But at least Sven-Goran Eriksson's side had the knowledge that they were beaten by the eventual winners.
The drama in South Korea and the success of Philippe Troussier's Japan was the embodiment of how this tournament has worked for the co-hosts, from the spectacular stadia to the friendly hospitality of the hosts.
Those of us based in Japan were greeted by an endless supply of enthusiasm, courtesy and good organisation - as well as unending friendliness and unquestioning co-operation.