The image is still in people’s minds! On July 9, 2006 in Berlin, during the World Cup final between France and Italy, Zinédine Zidane headbutted Marco Materazzi in the chest. Sent off for this gesture, the captain of the Blues left the pitch with his head down. However, this gesture became symbolic, despite Italy winning on penalties. Since then, this moment has continued to fuel debate and Gianluigi Buffon has notably returned to this improbable scene. In an interview given to Guardianthe former Nazionale goalkeeper appeared embarrassed.
“It’s my fault.” I was about 15 meters away and heard the thud (of the gesture). If he had done this against anyone else, that person would have been knocked out. The linesman didn’t see it. The only witness was me. So, I rushed towards the referee and his assistant to get their attention. Materazzi was on the ground. Zidane was motionless, I was protesting and the match was interrupted” he told the outlet, saying he felt guilty. “I was overwhelmed and torn between conflicting feelings. I knew it was Zidane’s last match and that he was one of the greatest and most elegant players in the history of football. And I was sorry it ended that way for him.”. Almost 20 years later, the story continues to shock…
