Well at least its done; both were punished and the issue should be left alone now. Let us remember Germany 2006 as the great tournament it was and not because of this incident. Congrats to Italy the World Champions and to Zidane the greatest player of this generation all we can say is thanks to you football is no longer a sport it is an artform "Au revoir ZIZOU. Nous ne jamais oublierons vous!"

Posted by: AvalancheRule from Toronto on July 20, 2006 12:10 PM

As a 10 year old kid,
I personally think that FIFA made excellent decisions on the Zidane headbutt. I think that Materazzi deserved to be fined 5,000 Swiss Francs and susppended for 2 international matches. (vs. Lithuania and France) I think this because Zidane was walking away from Materazzi when he said something to him, and it must have been pretty insulting for him to turn back and headbutt him. It was good, yet coincidental that his second game that he's suspended for is against France, because if he played them, France might blame him for their star player being kicked out of the final. I also find FIFA's decision against Zidane was sufficient because since he's retired, it's a good decision to make him do community service with children because a lot of kids like me were watching the final and were shocked when we saw the replay of Zidane lowering his head into Materazzi's chest. I also think FIFA made an appropriate choice on fining Zidane more money than Materazzi because, though Materazzi insulted Zidane, Zidane headbutted him. The only decision I didn't agree with was suspending Zidane for three games. What's the point in suspending him when he just retired??? But, other than that, I think FIFA made the right decisions.

Posted by: Jordan Reyes from on July 20, 2006 12:22 PM

Doesn`t make sense. Zidane is at fault here, but it seems all the attantion has been directed at Materazzi for provoking him. Great news for violent people everywhere: Your actions are justified if your provoked. Bad-mouthing your opponent is part of every sport. How you react to it is a choice you make. From what I have gathered in the news, Materazzi`s comments were not racial.
Zidane cracked and then played the victim card. Now Materazzi is public enemy number 1??
Zidane was clearly at fault.
There is no law or rule against insults on the field. But physical violence is not accepted on or off the field.....Until today.

Posted by: Sam from Montreal on July 20, 2006 12:24 PM

Well FIFA is the boss, they call the shots. Nobody can be sure it happened the way they say it happened, but there is one thing clear, FIFA wants none of that anymore, wether it'd be verbal or physical violence. That is the message. Verbal abuse is punishable, to a lesser extent than physical, but in "soccer" from now on it will be punished. Period. I also hope we see more of Zizou in charity business, and maybe less of a Materazzi ( or a changed one). Don't get me wrong before you call us sissies, I enjoyed watching Brashear vs Domi, but soccer is "another" sport, get it ?

Posted by: luke from paris on July 20, 2006 12:29 PM

Great relief that Zizou gets to keep the "golden ball". Thank you Zidane for showing grace and humility in the way you have handled this matter.

FIFA's decision stinks as Materazzi should have received a stiffer fine! The provoker got away again.
What kind of message is this sending? You can insult someone's family and honour and get away with a 2 game ban? Not saying that one should resort to what Zidane did however the world now knows that FIFA is a joke and Materazzi is a weak player who plays with his mouth rather than his foot!
Zidane remains a LEGEND!!!

Posted by: Naila from Toronto on July 20, 2006 12:34 PM

Just punishment. For those who commented that that bad-mouthing is part of every sport... well I guess they don't understand the meaning of sports. It may well have become commonplace, but it has no place as far as I'm concerned. Zidane should've walked away. One last thing, it is a cardable offence to swear or insult an opponent. Problem is, too many referees let it go.

Posted by: WPMountain from on July 20, 2006 12:40 PM

I am big fan of Italian soccer, but I'll be the first to admit that the Italian national soccer team is basically the Toronto Maple Leafs of soccer: Their fans expect them to win every time, in general they're a dirty team (for cheapshotting and diving), they play a fairly boring brand of soccer, and they complain when something doesn't go their way. That said, Zidane has gotten a free ride in this whole situation. Regardless of what was said (as long as it wasn't racist, there's no excuse for that) on the field, he made a boneheaded decision which you could argue may have cost his team the World Cup. Yet Zidane is a hero, Materazzi is 'that a--hole Italian'. I don't condone trash talking, but it's a part of any sport, and will continue to be part of sport forever. Zidane got played, plain and simple, Materazzi pushed his buttons until he got the response he wanted. All that aside, the punishment is almost irrelevant because it won't cost either player anything, and that's probably for the best because this is a much smaller deal then people are making it out to be

Posted by: Mark from Peterborough on July 20, 2006 12:45 PM

I think the FIFA verdict is a Joke. Zidane being retired is not even effected by the ban; while Materazzi the Victim here is in effect given a 2 match ban and is forced to pay a fine. If the incident did not involve the "great" Zidane, this would never have been an issue. The attacker would have been easily given a 4 or 5 match ban and their certainly would have been no investigation when the incident was witnessed by close to a billion spectators. Fifa can justify its verdict on Materazzi in effect by his own admission of guilt. I personally, still dont believe that an "insult" on the field of play deserves this punishment. Does FIFA now in future intend to punish similar cases of "insult"? And how is this to be defined? This is a unique case in the history of sport, as I dont believe a player in a sport has ever been sanctioned for the words spoken in the heat of battle on playing fields around the world. However, that being said I dont believe this will change anything and FIFA wont begin to enforce this precedent, and instead this is just another example of how the powers that be are ever so willing to protect their "cash cows"(in this case Zidane) and lesser mortals(materazzi and ourselves) just have to learn to accept it.!!

Posted by: Dante from Toronto on July 20, 2006 12:45 PM

Zizou is still king.

Posted by: Tony from canada on July 20, 2006 12:46 PM

FIFA made the wrong decision concerning Materazzi. Trash talking is part of every sport. It may not be nice, but part of sport is getting inside your opponent's head. Zidane is old enough and experienced to realize that. His violent behaviour cannot be excused for any reason. FIFA is clearly sending the wrong message by justifying Zidane's stupid reaction - even partially. Violence has no place in sports. Let's not give people an excuse to think violence is OK under certain circumstances ... or if you are a big star who is insulted.

Posted by: Stan from quebec on July 20, 2006 12:51 PM

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! 3 games for head butting and 2 games for verbal abuse. I think that they should apologize for ruining what was a alright game. ZIDANE should have had more composure and thought about what MATERAZZI was doing as he is know as a provoker adn undisiplined player. MATERAZZI uses tactics to disturb the best players in the game ZIDANE lasted right till the end and then he lost it... come on he could have easily lost it earlier

Posted by: go chops go from Toronto on July 20, 2006 12:52 PM

I thought it was a very good decision. They could not punish one and not the other. What they both did was wrong, and now they are both getting punished. I found it a little funny when I saw that they suspended Zidane from 3 games. But community service is good. Materazzi will miss the game against France. I hope France wins. I'm glad Zidane was allowed to keep his award. I'm glad this is all over now.

Posted by: Elitta Sibtain from Calgary on July 20, 2006 01:14 PM

Zidane's pledge to do three days of community service work with children and youngsters as part of FIFA's humanitarian activities will benefit the world of soccer. Despite his final altercation in World Cup 2006, many people in the entire world have a respectable view of Zidane's character. For the sake of the children of the world, I hope that Zidane will in fact contribute more than the three days he pledged.

Posted by: Reno from Windsor on July 20, 2006 01:16 PM

SO basically what they are saying is a verbal insult and a physical assault are the same thing. Great. FIFA should be dismantled.

Posted by: S Reddy from on July 20, 2006 01:22 PM

People give your collective heads a shake. Two players exchange words on a field(NOT RACIAL), and one turns around and physically assaults the other and how do we justify this????? Thankfully we dont all react to verbal attacks with violence or is this what we want. Neither person is in line for sainthood.

Posted by: incredulous from toronto on July 20, 2006 01:24 PM

It seems pretty fair. I, too, believe Materazzi should
have gotten equal fines and bans, based on his
instigation of the event.
Regardless, we can all speculate on what happened
(based on our own assumptions) but Fifa has heard it
from the 2 involved.
Fifa have all the information and obviously both players
deserved punishment.
I'm hoping this will be a wake up call for Materazzi to
start playing a clean game instead of all the dirty plays
he has been known for.

Posted by: Jennifer Bell from Vancouver on July 20, 2006 01:26 PM

Well, both parties were wrong ....... but I'm glad to see that it can finally be left alone. What a wonderful tournament Zizou had (minus the incident). He was incredible against Brazil and it's a shame that France lost in penalty kicks.

Posted by: Kash from Vancouver on July 20, 2006 01:26 PM

What a waste of time by FIFA here. Suspending a retiring player. Is FIFA dumb? Zidane's been punished already. What could be possibly worse than getting red carded off the biggest game on the biggest stage and losing out on the big prize? Give me a break. I love it how people think this is a great move by FIFA, because it's not. And I'm not defending Zidane here, just stating the facts.

Posted by: mug3n from Toronto on July 20, 2006 01:37 PM

I am so relieved that Zidane’s award has not been taken away....because that would have been gross injustice and would have sent me to the streets in protest. So, thank God for that. That being said, I do think foul mouthed M. had not been given the punishment he deserved. As a football fan, I do feel like he has wronged me and the whole football world by depriving us of a whole 10 minutes of play from Zidane. So you see his crime was not just against Zidane and a 2 game suspension does nothing to comfort me. But I think I will get over that, although I still think Zidane should be forced to come out of retirement just to serve his sentence. That way he can also make up for the 10 minutes of play that he still owes us.....

Posted by: Roza Tesfaye from on July 20, 2006 01:39 PM

I think FIFA's ruling is a joke! They should have penalized Materazzi more and Zizou less since Zizou was already punished by being sent off in overtime of his last game. This was FIFA's chance to really take a stand against unsportsman-like conduct (i.e. trash talking) on the field, and they blew it. Just because trash talk has always been part of sports, that doesn't make it right. A small fine and a 2 game ban doesn't make much of an example out of Materazzi. If you can't let your skills and abilities speak for themselves, then maybe you're just not good enough! Also, banning Zizou from match play is pointless since he is retired now. Community service for Zizou is good, though, and I'm sure he is more than happy to do it since his apology was intended mainly for kids.

Posted by: Mindy from on July 20, 2006 01:44 PM

We still love you Zizou.
Problem sorted,let's forget and remember the golden years.
Please leave message in gold book on our new ZZ tribute website
www.rememberzidane.com
Thank You,
Long live...Football...

Posted by: Guillaume Rivaud from UK on July 20, 2006 01:49 PM

Dissapointed!! Materazzi should have gotten a five game suspension to let the world know the FAIR PLAY means actions and not superficial. Soccer like Business is a professional job and FIFA needs to punish those who comits verbal abuse practically it's unprofessionaly for kids to see that it's ok to cuss at your worker or oppenent. Let's not be selective hypocrits and just fine physical agression. Every action demands a reaction.

Posted by: Gladiator from on July 20, 2006 01:52 PM

I think FIFA made a good decision but I was still not happy about it since I think it wasnt fair for Zidane, the whole world knows he had been provoked with grave insults, I mean he wouldn't just turn around and think he wants to head-butt him in the final. Anyway I'm happy he can keep his golden Ball award because he really deserves it, he is just simply the best. I would also like to thank Zizou for everything he has given to football, and thank him for helping France reach the final. "Merci Zizou, je t'adore!!!"

Posted by: Myriam from London on July 20, 2006 01:55 PM

if zidane strangled and killed materazzi, the ban could have been more prominent: 8 matches off to zidane and six matches to unsporty materazzi.

"but... poor materazzi has ben killed!"

"Sure! You can't imagine how ENORMOUS must have been his verbal offence!"

I mean, words are words. Violence is violence.

Posted by: katzenberg from Minerbio on July 20, 2006 01:57 PM

I agree to the fact that we should remember the better moments of this fine tournament. I am Ukrainian so I was more than happy to see our national team beat the odds and make it as far as they did. The emphasis throughout the world cup was to abolish racism and promote fair play. Although I cannot condone the actions taken by Zidane, I must comment on Materazzi's poor form to instigate the clash between them. Why start it knowing the legend of football that is Zinedine Zidane, has reached his final world cup. Why be the instigator and negate FIFA's intention/purpose for this tournament which was to promote fair play. I love the game, have been playing for about 15 years. Let us remember the great moments of this 2006 Germany World Cup. Promote fair play! love the game!

Posted by: Alex from Montreal on July 20, 2006 02:03 PM

Of course bad-mouthing is part of every sport - so much of any game is mental and getting inside the head of your opponent is just one more advantage to have. A veteran athlete like Zidane should know better (this incident puts him in the same sentance as Rooney - a rookie who doesn't know when to control himself). It is a disgrace that Materazzi received a fine remotely similar to Zidane's and it is a shame that the suspension to Zidane will never be justified by community service, which he probably does anyways. As for the provoker - he is never the one who should be punished, it is always the one who relatiates that suffers. A true champion should know when to be smart and walk away for the better of your team.

Posted by: Dro from Miami on July 20, 2006 02:04 PM

Let the headbutting incident NOT be the lasting impression we take away from those superb games. Let's remember the exciting wins and the heart-breaking losses but most of all let's remember the bringing together of teams of gallant, determined players who gave us a month of over-the-top entertainment,

Posted by: NaiNai from Edmonton on July 20, 2006 02:10 PM

Lets admit that taunting is part of any game and be done with it.
Zidane should be remembered as a hero for many reasons, but not for receiving the golden ball this year. To award a player suspended TWICE in one tournament, any tournament, is ridiculous. It sets an example that no league in the world would accept. If your the best, the rules simply don`t apply to you. Do what you want, and we will reward you after the tournament.
I can`t accept that Zidane was the best choice for the award. They should have taken it away and closed the book on his career.

Posted by: Richard from on July 20, 2006 02:12 PM

I think the FIFA decision was a good resolution. Both players faulted. Why should verbal abuse be legal and physical abuse condemned? And why would any insult as long as it is not racial, be considered any less serious than a racial comment (to think so would already imply a sort of prejudice!)

It would be good if the game is based on skill and hard work, but I understand the reality of what actually goes on. Still, we must never give up the ideal of fair play.

Posted by: Felix from Denver on July 20, 2006 02:26 PM

I applaud FIFA's decision for both Zidane and Matterazi. The penalty for both is fair, although Zidane is now retired and will be spending his time with children. Most importantly though, I believe the right decision was made regarding Zidane being able to keep his MVP award from the 2006 World Cup. The voters chose Zidane fairly from his outstanding performance in the tournament, and the incident with Materrazi does not change that. It is unfortunate the tournament had to end with the incident, but Zidane is still up there as one of the top players, and France did a fantastic job in almost re-creating what we saw in the France '98 World Cup.

Posted by: Dave from on July 20, 2006 02:27 PM

FIFA handed out the punishment to materazzi for "repeated provocation ".
You can tell from the video replay that zidane walked away from the initial verbal attack from materazzi but the insults kept spewing and it was the "repeated" provocation that finally caused the reaction.....
Please dont equate the vicous personal insults with general cursing on a charged playing feild.... which is also inexcusable if its racist in nature...
While its would be illogical/impossible to evesdrop to control such behaviour... . FIFA should encourage players to come forward to report vicous behaviour on the playing feild... and it should investigate the matter... similar to how employers handle sexual harassment ... (yes its diffuicult to prove and its one persons words against anothers..... ) but they can atleast maintain records on players accused of that behaviour and if future complaints show a pattern then action should be taken againt the player.....
It is people like materazzi and people who condone their subversive behaviour to win the games that bring disrepute to football....
I am apalled that people can be dismissive of the power of words ... especially when vicously repeated.....
No one ... not even a zidane fan would recommend that he not be punished but at the same time FIFA did need to take a stand that repeated vile provocation even if verbal would not be overlooked since that is also against the ethics of the game...
The precedent is not that fifa wants noone to utter any profanity.... but to stop vicious verbal personal or racist attacks ... Anyone who argues that vicious verbal attcks do not constitute a subversive sabotage of a game have a pretty low sense of ethics themselves...
And please who ever said "sticks and stones can break my bones but words cannot hurt me " must have been deaf !!!!
Before the world cup i was an admirer of zidane .... after it i can tell you that i think of him as a hero albeit a very human one......

Posted by: caqforever from on July 20, 2006 02:30 PM

People wake up... What Materazzi said on the field is nothing new to the world of sports. It happens everywhere, players say things on the pitch or on the ice, its all part of the game. If you can get under the skin of the opponent then all the better. Further more the ones that say Italy dives, etc...did you watch that game? France did the same, for that matter did you watch Portugal - they must have went to diving school before the world cup! Get real people this is part of the game, and ZZ's ban does nothing! Shows FIFA is a joke.

Posted by: Fernando from Calgary on July 20, 2006 02:34 PM

Trash talk is part of every sport. There's nothing in the rules that says you cannot trash talk your opponent (no racist comments were said in their exchange). It's not the first time that Zidane has reacted like this. Materazzi played him perfectly. Zidane deserved the red, the fine and suspension (irrelavent now that he is retired). Materazzi got punished because he harassed Zidane. If it were anyone else, we wouldn't be talking about it now. If this WC was suppose to be about fair play, how come Zidane won the Golden Ball award and not Cannavaro? Let's see, you get 2 yellows and a red card in 7 games and came in second or you commit a total of 5 fouls in 7 games, no cards and win the WC. Not to mention backing a defence that did not conceive a single goal in regular play (1 own goal and 1 penalty shot) in 7 games. Zidane, you are a great player but you don't deserve this award.

Posted by: Mauro from Canada on July 20, 2006 02:37 PM

In hockey, there is a penalty for instigating. There are penalties in various sports for "unsportsmanlike conduct". Bad-mouthing and insulting is not part of any sport, it's just an activity that's tolerated by the powers that be.

Posted by: Andrew from Cobourg on July 20, 2006 02:39 PM

Lest we forget that violence, either verbal or physical, have no place in society (or sport). Shut up and play.

Posted by: Phil from Montreal on July 20, 2006 02:39 PM

Does everyone really hate the Italians that much?

Are we so fustrated by the Italians that no matter what people do to them we will go against the Italians?

Do you really think Zidane said nothing wrong in that exchange of words?

I read a few comments here and I'm disgusted by the way people are defending Zidane. He is a talented player with a temper. Let us not forget he has show his evil side before.

I wonder if the shoe was on the other foot, and Materazzi was the one who ramed Zidane for his inappropriate comments, if everyone would go to his defence? I'd bet not. Fact is, the Italians are considered one of the best soccer teams in the world, if not the best, and because of it people don't like to see them win.

Forget everything, was Materazzi wrong in what he did? ABSOLUTELY. Regardless of wheather or not it happens all the time in sports, it is not "sporting". Should Materazzi be punished? ABSOLUTELY, but that should be done by the referee. If the referee doesn't hear it, then it's like the shirt grab he didn't see, or the dive he didn't call. But, we can not let the players start "getting even". How long will it be before all the players start using the excuse, "He called me an SOB".

The referee is there to keep peace in the game. We have to leave the power to him and him alone. I don't care if it's Zidane, Ronaldo, or the great Pele. If you take matters into your own hands, then be ready to be punished for your actions.

The did nothing to Zidane. He's retiring and the 3 game suspension means nothing. Materazzi's punishment may have been justified, but it is not right that the person committing the crime gets away. FIFA had their chance to show they are not going to bow to anyone. They missed the boat. Mark my words, they have set a dangerous president here.

Posted by: Alan from woodstock on July 20, 2006 02:41 PM

Let's clarify the situation:
Italy won World Cup,
France won 2nd prize, and
Zidane lost his cool!

Winning in sport, is often about tactics: you try to distract the opponent by out-playing him, out-smarting him or out-talking him. We have seen this many times and in many sports. But one thing is clear, we do not accept physical VIOLANCE.

Materazzi`s bad-mouthed Zidane, maybe because of previous verbal exchanges. So far there is no law against that, and I hope that law will not come. I think that athletes should have enough hard skin (certainly they earn enough money) to be able to withstand a verbal exchange of insults. Grow up!!!
But we MUST agree to stay away from physical VIOLENCE

FIFA should have closed this issue - instead of trying to justify physical VIOLENCE if in response to verbal abuse. There is no justification for physical VIOLENCE.

I am very sad for Zidane; a great player but he lost his temper, AGAIN. What makes it very sad is that it happened in the last minutes of his career; and that so much attention is being placed on it.
I am sure he would like to close the page on this miss-hap and be remembered for his triumphs.

Materazzi and Zidane are somewhere relaxing and having a drink together.

Pasquale, Montreal

Posted by: Pasquale from Montreal on July 20, 2006 02:42 PM

Is anyone else sick of this whole headbutting issue? would it be different if he PUNCHED him instead? Lets put this to rest, there are bigger issues going on in the world. it was just a little headbutt, didn't even phase him...If a baseball player were to do that in the world series it would be forgotten within 2 days. now if it were golf...well thats something i'd like to see...Tiger headbutting Colin montgomerie..anyway, find something better to do with your time people, like community service.

Posted by: B from Kingston on July 20, 2006 02:45 PM

No I don't think it was the right decision. How many times has Zindane bad mouthed players and never been punished for it. Are we to assume now that FIFA will punish foul mouth players everytime. I don't think so. Because this altercation happened to Zindane, FIFA must somehow play to the Zindane fans and punish Materazzi. The way I see it, FIFA rewarded Zindane by giving him the tournament player award. He did nothing in the first two games. Did not play the third game due to a suspension. Played average in the fourth game. Played outstanding in the fifth and sixth games and was virtually given the award by the media before the final game started. Yes he scored three goals (two by penalty kicks), but he also received three yellow cards, the most for his team, and the only red card for France. The media hype was for him throughout the tournament.

Will players now run up to the referee or officials and claim they have been spoken badly to so they can get penalties against the other team? Professional players get paid millions to play soccer and take the physical and verbal abuse that goes with it. Had this happened to another player without the credentials of Zindane, there would not have been any investigation into the head butt.

Posted by: Mario from Ontario on July 20, 2006 02:45 PM

The punishment for Zidane is too hash, he should never been punish for head-butting the Italia player(Materazzi). This is a wrong message to the soccer fans all over the world. My judgement is base on what the Italia player(Materazzi) say to Zidane in the pitch, such racist comment should never happen at all. Materazzi should know that the least people belong to the human race.
I hope the Italia player learned a lesson never to use a racist comment anymore.

Posted by: Sam-carsca Inibhunu from on July 20, 2006 02:48 PM

Words can hurt more than actions, insults can be more painful than headbutts. I think it was wise of FIFA to punish both players (somewhat). Both punishments could have been stiffer in my opinion, as the overall emphasis of the games was against racism and violence. An unfortunate incident in an otherwise great World Cup!

Posted by: Markus from Edmonton on July 20, 2006 02:50 PM

Had the event occurred in civil life, ZZ would be looking at a jail sentence (penal), whereas Materazzi could face libel (civil) proceedings. Major difference.

We live in a society that has free speech. France does not allow hate-speech. But whaever, violence is not acceptable. The weight of the decision essentially condones violence.

If Totti deservedly got 5 games for spitting and Poulsen nothing for taunting (fair game), then ZZ should have gotten something like 10 minimum. The sentence also ignores 14 red cards, two other head butts and a cleat-stomp in his [ahem] glorious career.

ZZ is also a very small man. He could've relinquished his title as best player (voted upon BEFORE the game); everyone would be unanimous to say 'what a great move'. Instead he preferred to whine: 'c'est pas moi, c'est lui', like a 6-year old child who does not understand the real values...

Posted by: jerome from Abbiategrasso on July 20, 2006 02:56 PM

While I was not thrilled when I saw my favorite player head-butt someone who uses cheap, dirty means to make up for his lack of skill or talent...But I almost felt like Materazzi deserved it. There is a certain conduct you follow when playing opponents of other countries with different ethnicities and FIFA is serious about that. The world cup does not allow racism and discrimination to be an issue. I am almost convinced something was said dishonoring his origin and family...for him to turn around like that and go back and confront him, it must have been harsh. Of course bad mouthing exists in sports...but when you step over boundaries to natures of racism that is unaccepted. Learn to play the sport if you have to rely on getting someone kicked out of the game in order to win!! And with all the drama Italian soccer is facing now a days can you imagine what certain anti-racism organizations, die-hard fans, officials would do if they released info that the insults were of racist nature. It would be mayham. Nonetheless...Italy had a good tournament, however I think they play pretty boring soccer with some dirty tactics. Zidane truly is the greatest player. With control, skill, poise, intelligence and a passion for the game. His style wasn't dirty....he just wanted to play soccer. Wish I could see more of it.

Posted by: Eleni from on July 20, 2006 02:56 PM

I'm sure people are feeling pretty stupid for apologizing for Zidane right now (Fifa is so stupid it can't feel any other way). I rooted for France but, hey, I'm not going to lie to myself. Zidane tarnished France in 2006 and ruined 1998 as well -- and for nothing, we learn. My hat is off to the Italians -- with all of the unfairness directed at them, with all of the disparaging comments and lies, they must feel as though every game is an away game. Yet they still win cups. I have to admit, given the adversity they face, they have clearly established that they are the best in the world.

Posted by: Jean from on July 20, 2006 03:01 PM

this is going to open a can of worms. The next time something like this happens, and it will happen, the perpetrator, who could not handle his emotions, will cry foul over something said towards him. Trash talk is part of the sports field, fair play or no fair play. It happens and it will never disappear. Players like Zidane do a disservice to themselves, their country and fans when they let their emotions get the best of them.

Posted by: todd devonshire from on July 20, 2006 03:02 PM

I can't believe how many people are on Zidane's side. Think about it. The use of physical force is never justified unless you feel you are in danger. Zidane's history speaks for itself. He's an increadably talented player, but he has a mean streak.

Could you imagine this in our everyday lives. "Well your Honor, I hit her because she called me an XXhole". "Well then, case dismissed". I DON'T THINK SO.

Zidane's punishment should have been much stiffer. Suspension means nothing to a player who's retired. Make him do 1 year of community service for soccer. As for the Golden Boot, I personally wish they would have taken it away, just to prove a point. I wouldn't have given it to anyone else, but the kids who follow soccer would have seen that, no matter who you are, you have to play by the rules.

Posted by: tony from on July 20, 2006 03:03 PM

Sticks and stones may hurt my bones, but names will never hurt me. I learned this at about 4 or 5 years old and have played competitive sports ever since without headbutting anyone. Apparently, Zidane has the maturity of a 3 year old. No matter what he said you walk away. Period. Materazzi got robbed. This kind of precedent is dangerous and unrealistic for FIFA.

Posted by: Devon from Ottawa on July 20, 2006 03:04 PM

I must comment on the "10-year-old kid", Jordan's comment, above. Clearly someone who rooted for France, and clearly not actually 10 years old (10 year olds can't spell Materazzi and certainly do not use words like "sufficient" to describe a punishment), it is sad to see how desperate the French and their fans are. I can no longer root for Les Blues as they have humiliated and lied and squirmed out of punishment with such spinelessness. Zidane should have accepted his fate immediately. Instead he chose to mislead the world and to not correct the lies concerning what was said -- and to blame someone else for his violence. It was weak and childish. Au revoir Zizou.

Posted by: Jean from on July 20, 2006 03:06 PM

It seems that there are always problems with Italy winning the World Cup and that's not right.
Soccer is full of people bad-mouthing each other. Just look at the rest of the games where players fight and argue with each other. The only reason that this was blown out of porpotion was because people seem to have issues with Italians winning.
Materazzi was just playing a normal game and he acted a little silly, no big deal (besides he did make a few beautiful headers throughout the matches). Zidane just lost his temper. He over reacted. He acted like a complete and total idiot, disregarding the fact that he probably faces that stuff every game.
Materazzi should not have received any charges and if any, not that heavy (maybe a small fine). Zidane on the other hand was charged too lightly and should have had a much heavier fine. He should also lose the Golden Ball.
As for me, I disregard all actions Materazzi did, but about Zidane, I lose all respect that I had for him of being such a good player.

Posted by: Jonathan from Toronto on July 20, 2006 03:08 PM

Craziness! If Zidane is a soccor hero, why is FIFA treating him as less than human and not making him more responsible for his actions. To give Materazzi a nearly equal penalty (which actually turns out to be greater since Zidane retired) is to suggest that Materazzi is somehow at fault for Zidane's action. And that dehumanizes Zidane. Sure, Materazzi's a goon and a goof, but Zidane turned, planted his feet and head-butted him to the ground. Zidane should at the very least be stripped of his MVP award. Materazzi should not be penalized at all, unless of course the on-field ref were to have given him a yellow or red card which he didn't. You can't penalize a goof-ball for on-field remarks just because someone we all thought was a hero overreacts. FIFA is not obligated to make a bad judgement call just because Zidane did. Perhaps FIFa is penalizing Materazzi as a way of justifying Zidane's being awarded MVP. Too bad a bad ending on field became a bad ending in the board room for this world cup.

Posted by: John Vanderstoep from on July 20, 2006 03:11 PM

Zidane got off way too easy...game suspension even though he has retired?? Why would that even be discussed? He should have the Golden Ball stripped from him. What he did was a disgrace and a sad end to his career. I am not condoning if Materazzi made such comments but come on that is how the world works. If every single person walking by you made such remarks..what are you supposed to do..head butt them all. Ma Va! Italy played a wonderful tournament and final and deserved to win. Viva l'Italia 2006 World Champions.....

Posted by: rene from Nanaimo,BC on July 20, 2006 03:14 PM

I am extremely disappointed with FIFA's decision to suspend Materazzi and allow Zidane to keep the Golden Ball. As someone stated earlier, the only reason this happened was because to happened to Zidane. If the roles were reversed nothing would happen to Zidane and Materazzi would have been suspended longer. This ruling hurts Materazzi (the real victim) more than Zidane since he no longer plays. Zidane's punshiment is a joke! All you Zidane fans who are crying about fair play remember your guy committed the crime and also has a history of violent attacks during games. FIFA should have stripped him of the Golden Ball! He didn't even deserve it in the first place, Cannavaro had a great (ENTIRE) tournament, not just one good game against Brazil! Zidane popped in a couple of penalty shot goals after that that he didn't even create. Oh well, Zidane, keep your trophy because despite FIFA's ruling the end still justified the means: Materazzi, Cannavaro and the rest of the Italians held the important trophy and the BEST TEAM WON!!! VIVA ITALIA, FORZA AZZURRI!!!

Posted by: Joe F from on July 20, 2006 03:14 PM

There seem to be a number of writers who think that, in
sport, blame should be laid squarely on the one who
retaliates, not on the one who provokes. I wonder how
many would also have the same opinion in the recent
Hezbollah-Israeli conflict. Hezbollah provoked, Israel
retaliated. There has never been a conflict, in sport or
elsewhere, without two willing -- therefore culpable --
players.

Posted by: Greg H. from on July 20, 2006 03:16 PM

Fifa has yet again invented it's own morals. How does this ruling make any sense. Zidane will never play again so he got off with just blowing it for France (bravo). Oh ya and didn't zidane do this before? yes in the champions league was the first tet butt. Materazzi was fined and banned for provoking? was Holyfield punished for provoking tyson to bite his ear off? Racial slurs should be the only time vocabulary gets you in trouble. football is not a good manners school. Is fifa saying this is the only time Zidane's family has been insulted in 16 years of professional football? Come on. FIFA is trying to save what is left of Zizu's legacy. We all really know how he will be remembered. as an idiot who blew it for his country. Hey FIFA stop changing your rules.

Posted by: Gianni from Manahattan on July 20, 2006 03:17 PM

Lets get Real !! WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU WATCHED A SOCCER GAME AND HEARD ONE PLAYER CALL AN OPPONENT NAMES OR BAD MOUTHING HIM ?? You Can't !! the officials would have to be nearby to ear it. In the Zidane, Materazzi exchange no one heard what was said !!! BUT THE WHOLE WORLD WAS SHOCKED TO SEE SUCH A COLD BLOODED ATTACK IN A SPORT WERE SUCH INCIDENTS ARE NOT COMMON. Now FIFA deems both guilty ?? WERE IS THE JUSTICE IN THAT ?? ZIDANE SHOULD OF HAD THE GOLDEN BALL TAKEN AWAY AS AN EXAMPLE FOR THE FUTURE OF THE SPORT !!! SHAME ON FIFA !!!!!!

Posted by: Pat from on July 20, 2006 03:31 PM

Well let me first say that during the FIFA tournament I was supporting Italy. I am very happy that they have won, I mean they deserved it for the way they played throughout the tournament. But almost equally as good France have played very well. And for both teams they have their captains to thank for making it that far, Cannavaro and Zidane. I believe that Materazzi wanted to remember this World cup. He gave the French team a penalty, he score a fabulous goal, and then to top it all off he provoked Zidane. I think that the FIFA's disciplinary committee made the right decision. Both players should be punished for what they have done, especially Materazzi. Also note that since Zidane has retried, he said he will be doing three days of community service on top of his other punishments. I also think that this incident does not change the greatest soccer player of our generation... It's more of a dramatic ending for him to exist off the soccer world.

Posted by: Amalia from Hamilton on July 20, 2006 03:32 PM

As an avid soccer fan, I was appalled by Zidane's rash actions. So close to the end of his career, and in the World Cup final no less, one would think that such a seasoned athlete and professional would have been able to maintain his self-control and composure, if not for the game, but for the estimated billion people watching. I'm very sure that throughout his career he has heard all manner of insults and for him to react as he did was shocking and very disappointing. As for Materazzi, his actions were antagonistic and immature, but not deserving of a headbutt. It is unfortunate that people now remember Zidane for his violent, immature behaviour, rather than his vast talent. Grow up Zidane.

Posted by: Rebecca from Regina on July 20, 2006 03:40 PM

What an absolute disgrace! FIFA have proved once again that they are weak in their duty as custodians of world football. They have bowed to the pressure of celebrity again.
I guess their decision is not surprising given FIFA's general disdain and bias against Italy. First we had Sepp Blatter's snub of Italy when he couldn't be bothered to present them the World Cup trophy as is his duty. Then we have this totally ridiculous decision which in effect punishes Italy and Materazzi for being the victims of violent conduct by another player. The fact that that player is Zinedine Zidane should not make a difference but apparently it does. And that is what FIFA has told everyone today - there is a double standard when it comes to discipline.
What is so disappointing in this whole episode is that Materazzi's words were made an issue when they should not be. If you are a professional and truly a "great player" then you don't react the way Zidane did to simple trash-talking. But I guess Zidane's history of violence on the pitch precluded all that. Remember it was him in 1998 in his home country who was banned for 2 matches for stomping on a player. He has been sent off close to 20 times in his "great" career. But according to FIFA, none of that matters. What a joke of a federation to set such a dangerous precedent - the bigger your name, the more lenient the punishment. I don't know how a 3 match ban and paltry fine hurts a retired millionaire soccer player. Yet a 2 match ban for egging on your opponent and receiving a head butt to your chest is just about right, according to FIFA. You are an absolute joke FIFA!!! You are ruining the beautiful game!!!

Posted by: John from Toronto on July 20, 2006 03:44 PM

Materazzi should have been the one to be punished in the first place. It is amazing how we push people beyond limits, then expect them to keep their cool...it is the instigator who should pay the price not the reactor. At any rate, Zidane is my hero; it is a shame that the cup ended the way it did. Football (or soccer in NA)is not what it used to be...so hopefully all the actors and divers will disappear next time around...So, for Italian fans, I hate to say it, but Italy didn't win this cup.

Posted by: Tamara from Toronto on July 20, 2006 03:50 PM

Every one is talking about how as long as insults are not racist they should be ok. Trust me, I could come up with some non-racial insults that will make you want to head butt me in the chest too. It's just not an excuse in my opinion.
I think Materazzi had it coming, and the bruise on his chest along with the suspension is his just reward.
Zidane had to be suspended for what he did, it is just not acceptable. But my god! What a hero. He should be called "hammerhead" ytmn.com has some wicked Zidane takeoffs BTW.

Posted by: Ian from Montreal on July 20, 2006 03:51 PM

I feel that the punishment that was given to Zidane was pointless. He is retired what isthe point of three games. Yes he said that he would speak to kids and give his time, why not he has his who life to do that he has nothing else to do. Also they still let him keep his award for the tournamet which means that if you attack another player you can still win and be looked at as a great player. It is funny how we forget about his past outbursts in past tournaments which anyone can find. Simply this was done because it was Zidane and only that reason if it were another player worse would have happened and no one can deny that. But in the end ITALY still won and are the champions so Zidane can take his award and tell the kids how he lost the championship for his country.

Posted by: Roberto Pierro from on July 20, 2006 03:52 PM

AvalancheRule: "Let us remember Germany 2006 as the great tournament it was and not because of this incident."

There was a tournament before this incident?

Posted by: PK from Montreal on July 20, 2006 03:56 PM

It's bad enough that soccer players regularly take dives as part of the game so any respect I had for soccer or for Zidane disappeared with his head butt. That people justify his actions is just absurd. Wayne Gretzky or Michael Jordan were subject to the same abuses and they never stooped to the lowly level of Zinadene Zidane. I will stick to watching sports that have a sense of class and professionalism.

Posted by: Ernie Engbrecht from on July 20, 2006 03:58 PM

Zidane should have been punished and not Materazzi. We'll never know what was said but I can bet it was Zidane who started the whole thing. I am Italian first and Canadian second. Italy is the best country in the world. I have been living in Montreal my whole life; I was born here but I consider myself Italian first and foremost.
I am glad Zidane won't be back. He is a disgrace.

Posted by: Guiseppe Pangolini from Montreal on July 20, 2006 04:03 PM

I think they should have stripped Zidane of his MVP title...

Posted by: Gen from Montreal on July 20, 2006 04:03 PM

Will this ruling change anything ? NO.
Am I glad this is over ? YES.
Am I looking forward to the next world cup ? Not as much.

Posted by: Moving on.. from Toronto on July 20, 2006 04:11 PM

FIFA have set a terrible precedent in order to protect the undoubted violence of Zidane. This would not have happened had Zidane not been such a big name. Any less favored player would have received a lenghthy ban and larger fine and the person provoking would have had no action taken against them.
This is the same double standards which FIFA used for deciding that Zidane was the 'best player of the tournament' for his one excellent game against France and his other mediocre at best performances. It was obvious to anyone with the slightest knowledge of Football (Soccer) that Cannavarro was the best player of the tournament, but did not receive the award because FIFA are obsessed with favoring and protecting the big names in the game.

Posted by: D Har from toronto on July 20, 2006 04:14 PM

*sigh* First of all, Italy is no more or less "dirty" than any other team in the World Cup. Italy is the team non-fans love to hate.

Second, to say Materazzi is the one responsible for this mess is ridiculous. Regardless of whether it’s nice or not, players do trash talk one another but as they say in sports, if you want to punish your opponent you do so on the scoreboard. Zidane's loss of composure at such a critical stage of the biggest game on the planet was inexcusable. It hurt France. In the end the players weren't wearing microphones but there were hundreds and cameras and billions of eyes watching.

If Zidane had kept his cool do you think he would have gone to FIFA later to demand Materazzi be suspended because he called him a poo-poo head or whatever? Of course not. Nothing would have happened. So Zidane is the aggressor, but Materazzi is the villain, right? Whatever. There is no doubt that if it had been another player Materazzi would not have been suspended. For all of his triumphs and great achievements in his soccer career, Zidane's disgraceful expulsion will be the thing most people remember.

In the end Materazzi's suspension is immaterial to Italy. The team proved it has plenty of other offensive weapons.

Posted by: Frank from Toronto on July 20, 2006 04:18 PM

To Sam from Montreal

Although I agree that Zidane should not have lost his cool simply because of the fact that he was being verbally provoked. However, it is stupid that verbal abuse and harrassment are an acceptable and unpunished part of any sport. Thus, although I do not condone Zidane's actions, I have far less respect for the Italian defender who feels it is classy to play dirty, snivelly, wimpy soccer. I honestly hope you don't think he is public enemy because Zidane magically turned the tables...he is public enemy number one because he got caught being scuzzy.

Posted by: Cat from NB on July 20, 2006 04:19 PM

Alan from Woodstock, you're right-- it is a dangerous "precedent" they've set (not dangerous president, which is something entirely different, existing south of the border).

Are they going to start putting high-powered microphones on the field so they can hear all the possible unsportsmanlike words going on between players? Will the victim of every violent attack on the pitch now be investigated for possible provocation? Should the Portugal player on the other end of that Wayne Rooney groin-stomping incident be investigated, just in case he said something about Rooney's sister or mother? It all seems a bit ridiculous.

I'm not sure whether to think of Materazzi as a genius for finding Zidane's weakness or as simply a dirty player with too many tattoos. Maybe he's both.

The decision is made. Now the incident can live on in sports trivia for years to come.

Posted by: LR from Saskatoon on July 20, 2006 04:19 PM

Both players should have equal punishment. In fact, my feelings are that the Italian should have more.

Posted by: John Donelian from on July 20, 2006 04:21 PM

The decision by FIFA for the suspension of Zidane is an absolute joke. As great of a player as Zidane is, this is a guy who has an ugly history of violence on the field, including another headbutting incident for which he received a FIVE match ban. So how could he receive a lesser suspension on his second offense? Take into account his other retaliations throughout his career which resulted in red cards, and this suspension should have been closer to 10 games. It is true that in this case he was provoked by the unsportsmanlike play of another player, but why after such a long career at the highest level of the sport has Zidane not developed the ability to do what 99% of humans are able to do every day and turn their cheek instead of instantly resorting to violence?
I can only imagine that this slap on the wrist is an attempt by FIFA to downplay the incident, thus letting fans try to remember Zidane for his incredible play on the field, instead of this ugly incident.

Posted by: Dave from Vancouver on July 20, 2006 04:27 PM

Gotta put the blame on Zidane here. No amount of verbal provocation justifies physical violence. Seems to me that too many of the players at the World Cup level are just babies ... taking dives, looking around to see if the ref is looking and then rolling about for extra points and sympathy. As a soccer coach if my players ever did that I would yank them off the field and red card them myself. It is too bad that at the elite level of (any) sport players forget about the love of the game and play for ego instead.

Posted by: Dennis Maione from on July 20, 2006 04:29 PM

FIFA is totally incoherent. In effect, Zidane gets nothing for his act of violent and Materazzi gets a stiffer penalty merely for insulting him. This is worse than the decision during the World Cup to suspend De Rossi 4 games (albeit deservedly) for using his elbow, yet suspending Frings only 1 game for punching a player, and not suspending Figo at even though he headbutted a player. If FIFA keeps acting this way, people will start to ask: Is FIFA simply anti-Italian?

Posted by: Nick from Ottawa on July 20, 2006 04:32 PM

I think FIFA should have come up with a much more severe fine for Materazzi (definitely more than 5K Francs). A verbal insult is not the same as physical abuse; however, it should be made clear from FIFA that there will be no tolerance to this kind of behaviour.

As much as I am happy to see the Italian team play so well (and so did the French) as much as I am upset about the fate of Zidane. His outburst is an example of human weaknesses while Materazzi's verbal abuse and provocation is an example of the mean and cowardly exploitation of such weaknesses. I sincerely believe that in order to enforce appropriate ethics in football, it is imperative to shun such behaviour by severe punishment. Zizou got what he deserved (more so during the game than after), but Materazzi should have been made an example of someone with unsportsmanlike manners, cruel intentions and dirty mind games. Its all about the intention, no? I disagree with my fellow viewers that it is common for players to use such vile "tactics" on the field. Football like any other sport is a display of finesse. So leave POLITCAL mind games out of it please!

One last thing about FIFA though, I don't think it is consistent for the referees to refrain from making decisions during the match based on "replays" while the highlight of this year's world cup is based on the fourth referee viewing a replay of a camera that was fixed on Zidane during the entire match! We certainly need an explanation from FIFA on this!

Posted by: Houda from Ottawa on July 20, 2006 04:32 PM

Well, FIFA have just reitarated their incompetence. Agreed, Zidane should have ingored Materazzi's comments. But, it's clear that FIFA's disciplinary actions are just a joke. Their message to the players it's clear: do what you want; the worst that can happen to you is a slight slap on your wrist. I can guarrantee you that if Materazzi were punished with a 20-match game ban he would watch his mouth. Of course, they won't do that. Italy was the favourite, and nobody wants to see the champion's prodigy player punished. This is FIFA's endorsing of racism at its best. Congratulations.

Posted by: Sergio from Vancouver on July 20, 2006 04:34 PM

I found myself surprisingly cheering for Italy in the semi-final against Germany, but subsequently disappointed by their performance in the Final when the French outclassed them. Maybe tasteless taunts were desperate measures by the Azzuri. Too bad. Italy's World Cup has been tainted by the racist Matarazzi. National team selection should be decided on character as well as talent. A headbutt to the heart of racism. All hail Zidane.

Posted by: Roland from Oakville on July 20, 2006 04:37 PM

Has no one considered, what powerful conflicting emotions were going on inside Zidane's mind, physically exhaused and exhilarated at the same time, at the very end of the last game of a career that he has devoted all his passion to? People say that bad mouthing and insulting comments are part of the game! Well, he had put up with it from Materazzi like a good sport, but this was his very last chance to elevate the issue in front of the entire world stage. He had the power and the guts to risk his reputation and make a statement the world would have to deal with. Kudos to Zidane. I noticed his coach applauded his action as well! Now the sport cannot ignore either of these behaviours. Fighting in hockey faced the same crisis and now the sport is better and stronger having grown through it.

Posted by: Greg from Caledonia on July 20, 2006 04:46 PM

Zidane had no excuse for what he did Materazzi had a mouth like any other italian unproffesional. But zidane could have pushed it off. Both materazzi and Zidane got what they deserve and Zidane ended his carrier like a fool and costed france the world cup. Shame on you zidane your lucky you got the golden boot i respected you and i still do but i forgot who you were at over time.

Posted by: Wilson waweru from ottawa on July 20, 2006 04:46 PM

Stop making excuses for Zidane's violent behaviour! I am sick and tried of people portraying Zidane as the victim and the good guy in all of this fiasco!! PLEASE STOP rationalizing his VIOLENT behaviour!! Zidane is no SAINT nor is he GOD! This is not Zidane's first violent outburst, he has committed several violent outbursts in his career. If you people can just get past your negativity and prejudice's against Italians maybe you can be more obejective and realize that Zidane lost control, lost his temper and then committed a inexcusable act of violence on another player, and in my opinion VIOLENCE against another human being is a crminal offence, and FIFA are a bunch of hypocrites, and should of given Zidane a much tougher penalty!! FIFA should be ashamed and embarassed, Zidane's sentence was just that, a slap on the wrist!!!
I sometimes wonder what is society coming to when VIOLENCE is condoned!!

Cheers, Peace and happiness to the world!!
Mary D. from Burlington, Ontario

Posted by: MARIE D. from Miss on July 20, 2006 04:47 PM

Well done, FIFA. Indeed it was the repeated instigation.

Now, about that operatic diving and arch acting. If I want to watch good fakery, I'll watch wrestling.

Posted by: Michael Slavitch from on July 20, 2006 04:50 PM

It should be noted that certain types of physical and verbal abuse are strictly forbidden, as per FIFA Regulations.

Therefore, it is difficult, if not impossible, for me to comment on the fairness of the decision since the players' official statements were never released to the public. In light of this, FIFA's decision seems only to appease the public's satisfaction, regardless of which view one might have on this affair.

Posted by: jim from montreal on July 20, 2006 04:53 PM

I think that Zidane should be remembered for that incident. Not in a negative way...but in a positive way. Zidane showed us that he has bigger priorities than a soccer game or the world cup...and that is to defend his family, at all costs. I think he has more values and morals then most players out there.

Posted by: Johnthetraveler from Ottawa on July 20, 2006 04:55 PM

So many aspects of soccer appear to be arbitrary or corrupt (e.g. (1) arbitrary additional time added at the sole discretion of referees who repeatedly prove their fallibility, (2)the ability to choose your best player to take a penalty kick instead of the player who got fouled,(3) game fixing (4) "sissy soccer injuries " (5) granting penalty kicks from a ridiculously close and central position on a ludicrously large net....)how could FIFA be expected to come up with anything that really makes sense?

Posted by: Dave from Toronto on July 20, 2006 04:57 PM

I think, FIFA decision is scandalous. Words is not similar to Violences, though bad words are not acceptable.

Posted by: Dave from US on July 20, 2006 04:58 PM

Two people walking down the street, one puts forth profanity, degrading comments, the other turns and assaults them, all the while this is caught on camera, does the physical assault change because the two are public/popular figures, and are the rules different for the masses? What would have happened to the average person who initiated the physical assault?

Posted by: JB from TORONTO on July 20, 2006 05:09 PM

Both players deserve to be punished, so FIFA did as much as it could. Both players have been suspended before for doing exactly the same things before. As far as I'm concerned,trash talking is a pretty bad attitude to take in sport, and I think we can agree that manipulative and persistant trash talking is bad for the game. So Italy won on PKs. This World Cup Final will be remembered for how it degenerated into bad behavior on both sides.

Posted by: Peter from Denver on July 20, 2006 05:12 PM

It takes 2 to get along and it takes 2 to fight!

Posted by: Teresa from on July 20, 2006 05:19 PM

So, in the name of fair play, FIFA hands down a decision that is grossly unfair and cowardly! Unfair because the two game suspension to Materazzi also punishes the Italian team, while the already retired Zidane deigns to do three days of community service to make up for his useless suspension. Cowardly too because Zidane somehow gets to keep his award! After a red card for intentionally causing bodily harm and a three game suspension, he gets to keep his award!
All in the name of fair play.

Posted by: Rob from Kleinburg on July 20, 2006 05:24 PM

Rewind back to Euro Cup 2004: Italian forward Francesco Totti spits in the face of Christian Poulsen, a Denmark midfielder. The world subsequently condemns Totti, treating him as a bona fide criminal. Why was no attention placed on Poulsen? Why did no one ask what provoked Totti to spit in another player's face? Why was the world's scrutiny placed on the Italian player?

Two years later at the World Cup, the tables are turned, with the Italian player (Materazzi) sustaining physical harm from his opponent. Yet this time the victim is put under intense scrutiny, and is punished almost as stringently as the perpetrator (Zidane).

It seems this is yet another example of jealously and aversion towards the Italians. Had Materazzi head-butted Zidane, I have no doubt that he would be severely punished, and Zidane would walk away as the innocent victim.

A pathetic FIFA ruling.

Posted by: Tony from Toronto on July 20, 2006 05:28 PM

Zidane should have lost the "golden ball". Like it or not, he was at fault. It doesn't matter if Materazzi said the most heinous repulsive comments about his mother or sister or unborn child or whatever. The fact remains, Zidane lost his cool and struck Materazzi (I do find it funny that he used his head instead of his fists - too much football I think). Trash talking is part of sports and Zidane blew it when his team needed him the most. If a red card for physical violence in the final still allows a player to keep the golden ball then FIFA has some significant soul searching to do.

Posted by: ADP from on July 20, 2006 05:28 PM

I think that FIFA fluffed this one off and according to thier recently amended rules which state any team found using racist and slanderous comments can result in a forfeiture of the game .

This would of sent the right message and along with adding rule change of 3 yellow cards before red card expulsions. This would allow refs to hand out yellows for diving ...thus stopping the academy award displays...

Posted by: Ron White from on July 20, 2006 05:28 PM

In all honesty, it happened, who cares. We have wars in the Middle-East, innocent women, children and men dying and yet, this sort of discourse continues. Let us all stop (including myself) feeding the media's dramatization of this story and focus on humanity and improving the quality of life for those around the world.

-Marc K.R.

Posted by: Marc from on July 20, 2006 05:30 PM

In this situation, you really have to put aside the fact that it was the last few minutes of the career of a great legend (as hard as it may be). I think that both punishments were sufficient for their actions.

What I find bizarre is that at least two expert Italian lip readers from at least two organizations interpreted the words "dirty terrorist" from Materazzi. I would think that lip reading would be concrete proof. Yet Zidane denied these words. This is purely a wild speculation but could Zidane have avoided conveying the terrorist words (if it was said) to avoid Muslim anger in Italy and France (France having the highest Muslim population in Europe. The anger would not be like the Muhummad cartoons but still present.

Posted by: Steve from Kitchener on July 20, 2006 05:34 PM

What was said on the field between players goes on all the time in all sports. However as I was growing up we were told that "Sticks and stones will break your bones but names will never hurt you" I would think that adults should behave better
Gerry, Montreal

Posted by: Gerald Labelle from Montreal on July 20, 2006 05:34 PM

FIFA`s ruling was a joke. Zidane's act was not one of a man defending himself or his honor after a career of silently accepting the insults. He lost his cool and reacted with violence. It started in 1993, when he got into a fistfight with Marcel Desailly; it continued in his career that saw him stomp on a Saudi player, head-butt a Hamburg player, which are examples of his 14 career red cards. He has a PR machine behind him so it is poor Materazzi who has had his name dragged through the mud. He did not make a racial slur as so many quickly suggested (even Zidane agrees on that) and he did not insult his mother. Materazzi's mother passed away when he was 15 and he pointed to the sky when he scored against France in her honour. Zidane is a great, great footballer but a short-tempered man who uses violence when frustrated. He couldn't score against Buffon and he took it out on Materazzi. What kind of a captain let's his team down like that!
Also, to I have never seen such racist and offending comments against a country or ethnic group, as I have against the Italians on postings here.
TO all the ITALIA-HATERS out there I say: IN YOUR FACE!!!
ITALIA CAMPIONE DEL MONDO 1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006!!! Not only did Italy play great defence but Italy scored the most goals in the World Cup (more than Brazil!). How's that for boring football.
One more time because it is so sweet: ITALIA CAMPIONE DEL MONDO!

Posted by: Carlo from Ottawa on July 20, 2006 05:47 PM

I am disappointed, though I am italian, I feel ashame of what Materazzi did. There is no excuse for this. He is and always will be a wanna be star, and he should consider himself lucky (and for having been head butted) to have had the attention of the great Zidane.

Posted by: Marco from Toronto on July 20, 2006 05:50 PM

Well FIFA's decision is made. And as could be expected there are those who feel some how slighted that both/one or the other could be awarded fines/bans. It's done! End of discussion! However some posters say the bad mouthing is all part of the game - head games, if you will. While this may have been so it does not improve the game and in my view detracts from the ability of two players to play "good" ball. A violent reaction to a foul mouthed instigator may not be viewed with jurisprudence but in view of "both" players' history what else would you expect. Materazzi's verbal attack was not a spur of the moment occurance but a premeditated gamble that "could" have backfired for Italy. Had the referee drawn the line earlier and determined the verbal assult was too much considering Zidane was walking away the outcome would have been entirely different. Now to put this in perspective for the yeh and nay sayers --Can you imagine the hullaballoo that would have been created IF some of the top Golf players of the Canadian or American Opens carried on in such a manner. Apply the same attitude to Ten or Five pin bowling. Or Lawn Bowling. Cricket any one? How about Tennis. Or Volley Ball or Basketball, just to mention a few. After all verbal abuse has always been part of "sports" too? Can you just imagine an all out stand up-knock em down fisticuffs(as we see in Hockey) at any one of these events...Perish the thought....But then we're talking about Soccer- where uncultured(Materrazi's own words not to mention Italy's track record on game fixing) dim witts kick about a black and white ball-for SPORT! I guess the old addage "It's not whether you win or lose but how you play the game" is neuorlogically WRONG! It should be read " It's NOT how you play the game but whether YOU win or lose" Fine state of affairs, yes sir!

Posted by: Bruce Starkes from on July 20, 2006 05:51 PM

Trash-talking has no place in sports no matter what is said. If a player needs to get in his opponent's head to break him then he ought to be more concerned about his game. FIFA should change "Fair Play" to "Shut Up and Play".

FIFA is a joke! Plain and simple. From the refereeing to this decision. Fair play means just that but like Materazzi admitted - "he is ignorant" and the world now knows.

FIFA should have slapped him with a 6 game BAN to show they mean serious business. Zidane has alreay paid his price by getting the red card to start.

But guess what people? The world is talking about Zidane and not Italy's tainted win! What does that say? Honour before glory! If anything we love,respect and admire Zinedine Zidane more then ever!

Posted by: Rosie from Toronto on July 20, 2006 05:55 PM

The fact that people talk about Zizou and end to a legend's career more than Italy's win pretty much sums it all up!

Posted by: Omar from on July 20, 2006 06:01 PM

hah. Hes retired you idiots. Dont suspend him, fine
him. Shows how hollow skulled anyone in any type of
authority are.

Posted by: Kieran From from London on July 20, 2006 06:16 PM

Another example of how Fifa changes rules and procedure to accomodate the idol and how justice is never equal for everybody.

Posted by: Nico from Toronto on July 20, 2006 06:20 PM

I find it amazing that so many people think verbal abuse should be part of the game of soccer.. no abuse whether verbal or physical has any place on or off the field.

Posted by: soccer27 from on July 20, 2006 06:28 PM

I'm not sure why racist comments trump all other forms
of insult. Isn't it just because race is such a touchy
subject? If I'm sensitive about my weight, sex, family,
etc, then isn't that equally offensive?

Last time i checked, 'insulting to make up for your own
inadequacies', wasn't a part of soccer.

Posted by: oliver from london on July 20, 2006 06:31 PM

I think that it was a good decision, all things considered. Its interesting that some people seem to think that verbal abuse is acceptable, and violence isn't. Neither is acceptable, period. It was so pathetic the way the Italian goalkeeper ran to the sidelines and whinned to the 4th official. Italy's win has been tainted, and they will always be known as the low class, no class team.

Posted by: Hugh Sundquist from Vancouver on July 20, 2006 06:32 PM

Materazzi's ban is a joke. Zidane gets to do lots of high-profile playing around with under-priviledged children while Materazzi misses 2 games and may lose his place in the team if and when Nesta comes back. If people didn't see FIFA as a bunch of clowns before, they certainly do now.

Posted by: Culo Peloso from Corsica on July 20, 2006 06:39 PM

What a joke it is to have someone commit a violent act and have the victim punished as well. In any respectable court of law, Zidane would have been charged with assault and he would have been convicted based on the evidence. Is this not his second time he has headbutted someone??? I have to say that FIFA is without any crediblity.

Posted by: David from on July 20, 2006 06:42 PM

i think zidane's punishment was alright, but Materazzi is definitly just a joke! Although Materazzi might have used "strategies" in some of your minds, i still think its very disrepecting for saving such things to a soccer legend. NO such thing Mateerrazi said should even exist on the soccer court, its very disrespectful, and i think Materrazi should have gotten a higher punishment instead, SINCE what he said shouldnt even be heard anywhere, in any sport.

Posted by: Zidane pwns all from Richmond on July 20, 2006 06:47 PM

Zidane needed to hold his temper, although he was being verbally provoked he is a seasoned enough player to know better. It is a sad way to end a career. He is an excellent soccer player & to descend to violence like he did, was unworthy of him. As for Materazzi, he is only one of the many who try to provoke an incident like this by mouthing off at their opponents, and every soccer player has come into contact with this kind of abuse, it does not excuse it, nor does it excuse Zidane, they both acted like immature bullies on the field, and marred their performance by doing so, they let down their contries,their families & friends & their fans and themselves. Enough said, it is over with, but hopefully younger soccer players will look at this as a learning experience, on what not to do, during a soccer game. I for one was very dissapointed by this whole fiasco.

Posted by: Witchy from on July 20, 2006 06:55 PM

Regardless of their actions, both were punished and the lucky one is Zizou! Materrazzi got the worse out of it..He knew Zizou was retiring and insulting him,
costs him more.
Glad on the decision of FIFA for boths players. Football uses lots of foot skills, not mouth... an empty barrel makes lots of noise...
ALLEZ LES BLEUS!

Posted by: Michael from on July 20, 2006 07:20 PM

You care most of don't. It's a sport ( and I use the term vary sparingly ) for cry babies and actors. I know this world cup ended it for a lot of people around here. We won't be watching it anymore.

Posted by: Greg Sloan from Canada on July 20, 2006 07:34 PM

It's a good decision because it kinda put things into perspective. Physical violence is graven than verbal abuse... but nasty insults are also punishable.

Yeah, Zizou lost his cool and it probably cost France the title. Poor France. Poor team. Poor fans. However, having acknowledged that headbutting was over the top and that verbal abuse is part of the game, there was something extremely satisfying in seeing Materazzi knocked out. It's like a playground bully finally got some :) I had great sympathy for Zidane and thought he was very humane, yet hot-tempered.
Italy won. They proved themselves. But there was definitely some bad stink coming from their game at times and for me Materazzi is strongly associated with it.

Posted by: Anele from London on July 20, 2006 07:39 PM

Why refence give him a red card? Is not fair becasue somebody ask him``PLEASE GIVE ZIDANE RED CARD`` Materazzi`s say a bad word to zidane and Materazzi`s was making fun of zidane mother also you are torriest`` On way zidane got red card I am very sad for Zidane; a great player but he lost his temper, AGAIN. What makes it very sad is that it happened in the last minutes of his career; and that so much attention is being placed on it.

Posted by: Fawwaz (TSN NEWS) from Montreal on July 20, 2006 07:44 PM

Some of these responses don't sound like they should be coming from Canadians. A two or three game suspension is NOT comeplace in the the NHL for much more violent, intentional, and routine assaults on players. Instead, in the vast majority of cases if they drop the gloves and punch another player square in the face they get a game misconduct. Bertouzzi is back playing after he inflicted grave physical harm. Those of you who think FIFA should be disbanded for they weak treatment of these two must think the NHL is a complete farse. Canadian hockey fans have little right to be critical of the treatment of soccer infractions! Now the constant "diving" - that's another issue :-)

Posted by: DF from Ontario on July 20, 2006 07:47 PM

I don't like what a lot of people are saying. Somehow, people seem to think that if it's a racial slur, it's okay to get violent. (Mauro, Sam, Mark, and Incredulous, to start with).
I agree with Felix- either all verbal assault is worthy of punishment, or none is, but don't go splitting hairs- that verbal assault is just as bad as physical assault. Don't turn soccer into a pointlessly-violent blood-fest like hockey.

Posted by: Jaldora from Toronto on July 20, 2006 07:51 PM

FIFA congratulations on committing another heinous act by defending that classless Zidane. First by awarding him the Golden Ball than punishing him with a sentence that has no ill affect on him what so ever. Did you forget that he (France alike ) were non existent in the first 2 games and was suspended for the 3 rd game for repeated fouls? Where was his sportsmanship there? Unbelievable. That award should have been given to Cannavarro who lead his team from day 1 to the Cup. Materazzi may have provoked him but is that anything new to this sport? When Totti spat in another players face due to the fact that he provoked and named call was there any rush to his defense for his actions? Of course not as he became labeled a “moron” while the great Zidane commits the most classless, dangerous and unwarranted move I have ever seen and gets sympathy. Alas, as it has always been and the way we enjoy it – Italy against the World (and we will always come on top). See you September 9 in Paris “les Bleus- Losers”.

Posted by: My Italian flag is still on my car from on July 20, 2006 07:51 PM

Thanks for your concern boys. Very interesting comments said here and there. Although I'm sure FIFA and KING of soccer Zidane have more important things to do than to listen to you guys TRY to experess your opinions for attention matters. It absolutely had no effect whatsoever. And im convinced that everyone agrees with what I just said (only 'cause its obvious). But I'm sure they'd appreciate your messages if they cared.

ps: i agree that zizou should be forced out of retirement to take his punnishment, because yeah, he really does owe us all 10 minutes AT LEAST, and another round of bulldozing if possible.

Posted by: John Smith from Hamilton on July 20, 2006 07:53 PM

Hmmmm Zidanne Mother must really be proud of her son.
I read his mother was in the hospital and ill at the time of the HEAD BUTT
Wow can you imagine a son who gave away the WORLD CUP for the LOVE of his MOTHER
Zidanne you have proven to the WORLD that you are the BEST by beating the Brazilians
YOU are the WORLD BEST Congradulations
Vive la France et Zidanne pour toujour:)

Posted by: Jules Bergeret from on July 20, 2006 07:54 PM

It's very tiring hearing all this stuff about Zidane and what a soccer icon he is. Truth be said he was suspended for a game France had to win by 2 goals to even advance past the first round. Yet the French managed to do that sans Zidane. He's been suspended double digit times in his career.This shows a perpensity for being hot tempered. He scored on a couple of penalty kicks big deal. This would be no different than a Wayne Gretsky or Michael Jordan getting kicked out of a game of monumental proportions. It just wouldn't happen because athletes like that are true professionals and would never jeopardize their team because someone from the other team trashed talked to them. I would be willing to bet tons of money that atletes like them have had their fair share of trash talking directed at them and never once lost it like Zidane. How many times have coaches sent out lesser players to instigate a fight with the other teams better players. Wake up people it happens all the time. There's a thing in sports called poise and handling pressure in less than ideal conditions yet most promient athletes are quite adapt at doing so minus perhaps Zidane. The only reason he won the golden ball was because he was retiring and that Cannavaro did not win was a travisty of justice. Well, they always said Zidane was magicical with his feet and know I can say he gives a pretty good head butt too. Materazzi got in his head and caused the outburst and that my friends ultimately cost the french a shot at the world cup. Zidane a hero not by any measure. Viva Italia

Posted by: SXC121 from WINDSOR on July 20, 2006 07:56 PM

The Materazzi show and the head butt incident will be soon forgotten.

Zidane is simply the best soccer player of the world. And he can be compared to Pelé (who use to call him El Maestro) or Maradonna

He largely deserves his best player award. Two things that will stay in memories: He brought France to the Final and he did a wonderful Mondial. France-Brazil will be remembered as the best game of the turnament.

Posted by: Karim from Montreal on July 20, 2006 07:59 PM

Fifa shame on you
Before many games you post sign about stoping racism in the world and then don't act
Never mind banning Zidanne of Player of the tournament award
How about taking away Matterazzi World cup medal REMEMBER FIFA sign stop racism

Posted by: J Bergeret from on July 20, 2006 08:04 PM

This ruling shows that Platini has a lot of pull in FIFA, and so logic is suspended. Zidane assaulted Materazzi, lost his head, was selfish and acted exactly in the opposite way a Captain should. He was frustrated because he knew it was his last kick at the can and things were not going his way. He does not deserve the Golden Ball because he was ineffective for the first two games, and wasn't present for France's crucial game against Togo, because he was suspended (had accumulated two yellow cards).
He was an excellent player, but he had lost his head before (had stomped on a player and had headbutted another).
It was his selfish decision to assault Materazzi while the game was still in the balance. He knew that headbutting resulted in an automatic red card, so he acted stupidly. You can call it what you want, if it walks like a duck, if it quacks like a duck, it's a duck. He acted liked a moron. Stop washing him in bleach, it won't change that fact. It was an ignominious end to a brilliant career, and it's entirely his fault. I used to be a fan, but now the affection is gone.

Posted by: Momo from Montreal on July 20, 2006 08:20 PM

I think your clarification needs some clarification.

Zidane lost his cool! Then
Italy took the World Cup and
France was given 2nd prize.

Posted by: Joseph from Toronto on July 20, 2006 08:24 PM

If FIFA thinks that Materazzi is responsible for Zidane's
actions, then they clearly have no understanding of
sports and what is acceptable and not acceptable. I
think this has more to do with the fact that Zidane is
one of the greatest players to ever play, and the fact
that Materazzi was not Canavarro or a big name player.
No matter what was said, no matter how good a player
Zizu is, ( by the way, 14 red cards in his history, not a
very clean player with a history of a very bad temper)
head butting another player is never, ever justified. It
is a cheap shot! it would have been better if Zidane
punched him. what if Materazzi broke a rib and
punctured his lung and died from his injuries? woudl it
still be justified. this is like blaming the alcohol when
someone kills another person driving. it s your
decision how to handle yourself and react, you have to
face the consiquences! Zidane should lose the golden
ball, be banned for a minimum 10 matches. materazzi
should walk scott free; let the french deal with it in a
few weeks when they play for Euro Cup qualifiers!
shame on FIFA as well for not giving Figo a bigger
suspension. it clearly seems, the bigger the name, the
more you get away with. Too bad the internet is not as
forgiving Zizu.

Posted by: Basil from Toronto on July 20, 2006 08:45 PM

Well i personally don't agree with the commitee. Why?

Because Materazzi said some pretty insulting things to Zidane for him to come back and give him a headbutt. So therefore his punishments are reasonable. But why is Zidane getting a three game suspension when he's retiring? It's good that he's got to do community service because it will put back some respect into the hearts of many kids and people who watch Zidane play. But let's not forget that it's also the heat of the moment, players are not thinking straight when things are hard or are playing during an intense matchup.

Zidane should always be remembered for his style of play and and creativity on the field, no one else does it like him. I truly understand what he did but if he was defending his family's beliefs and love then it goes to show that love for family has more heart than the love for a game.

Zidane should and will always be respected for he is one of the greatest player to ever step foot in this sport.

Posted by: Karan from Montreal on July 20, 2006 08:48 PM

Pasquale's right.
Any other player on any other day would have received a red card and that would be the end of it. In this case, it was Zidane who lost it. Media goes nuts; What could have driven our great Zidane to do such a thing? It can't be his fault.
How many players have head-butted opponents before Zidane? Was there an inquiry as to what "provoked" them? No.
Punish the violence, don't justify it.

Posted by: Sam from Montreal on July 20, 2006 08:50 PM

YE BOTH GOT THE PUNISHMENT THEY DESERVED AND I THINK IT WAS A GOOD DECISION BY FIFA.. OH WELL NO. ACTUALLY ZIDANE SHOULD HAVE GOT A BIT MORE HARD PUNISHMENT...... ANYWAYZ WHAT EVER HAPPENS.... IT HAPPENS FOR A GOOD.:)

IT WAS GREAT WORLD CUP AND NOW WE SHOULD FORGET ALL THIS AND THINK ABT NEXT HOCKEY SEASON 2006-07......:) YE GO OILERS GO!!!!!

Posted by: GO OILERS GO from edmonton on July 20, 2006 08:54 PM

The following comments are based on my experience as a soccer player of 44 years, a teacher of 34 years, and a coach of 30 years. I must say that in all my years, I have never witnessed such a blatant display of unsportsmanlike conduct than that of Zidane in the final match of the 2006 World Cup.

Even before the facts were known, the public had awarded Materazzi the "devil" image and Zidane that of a "saint." Certainly Materazzi's slate is not clean, but neither is Zidane's (14 red cards during his career.) I have never seen worse behaviour on the field of play than that of Zidane in the final game. I have admired Zidane's talent for the longest time. However, I was extremely disappointed with his incredible outburst of violence. The punishment imposed by Fifa is a face-saving gesture. How can one player receive a three (+/-) game suspension for a vicious physical attack while the other player receives two games (+/-)for instigating the altercation? In any other sport such physical violence would have been dealt with much more severely. In my opinion, Zidane received the Golden Ball Award denied to the "best player" of the tournament: Cannavaro. It was Cannavaro who, not only played every game, but also excelled in every single one. Zidane, although he played exceptionally well against Brazil, had neither a great tournament nor did he play in every game (served a game suspension.) This award is not a "lifetime achievement award" for contribution to the sport by an individual over the years, rather it is for the "outstanding" player of the tournament. Zidane was not!

Posted by: JG from Burlington on July 20, 2006 09:07 PM

Compared to the Canadian hero Todd Bertuzzi, what Zidane did was nothing. How can any Canadian who supports the NHL and it's mindless violence criticize Zidane, or any other sport?

Posted by: k cole from on July 20, 2006 09:15 PM

I wonder what it will take to be head butted by a French goon.Wait!I know. Let�s start with the truth. When I read the responses here about how Zidane was so hurt by the comments of Materazzi,I really am left in wonder. What lies in that pus filled,decrepit and seldom used organ that you call a brain? What miasmic thoughts are formed on such loathsome and easily corruptible morals? Have you lost all sense of what�s right and wrong because you refuse to accept the possibility that France was not the better team? That France lost because they were not good enough! I am in awe people. You have all focused on this verbal abuse issue because,in your own fantastic reality,it makes it easier to accept Italy winning if they cheated. France was brought down not by stunning football but by Materazzi calling Zidane NAMES!

Posted by: Adamo from on July 20, 2006 09:16 PM

Predictable? Yes. The more talented player gets the sympathy of the masses for succumbing to strategic provocation by the only player in the game who actually scored a real goal. Yes, the instigator Materazzi, as you may conveniently forget, scored a classic header. As a canadian of italian descent and a stalwart supporter of that diving, cheating, lucky, boring defensive style playing azzurri team, that just so happened to score 12 goals by 10 different players by using their very talented bench and may I add, the same team that saw 7 of its players make the all star team, I find it interesting to note that a similar investigation was not conducted into the provocation that led to the infamous Totti spitting incident. I don't think Totti spit at that Danish opponent for no apparent reason. Materazzi being punished is appalling. Zidane's actions were criminal. He is lucky the game was not played in British Columbia. Just ask McSorley and Bertuzzi.
The end result is this all of you Italia haters- We are the champions. For the 4th time I may add. Live w/ it.

Posted by: Raffaele from Toronto on July 20, 2006 09:18 PM

I loved Zidane, until he looked insane...
Headbutting is illegal (as per FIFA rules). Trash talk is not. Until now. Materazzi scored a goal for Italy in the final game..Zidane was given one as a penalty shot that should not have been called. Watch the video on the FIFA site. It was a French player who faked a cheap dive to get the only real chance to score a goal in the game. If video replay was allowed in soccer none of us would be talking about this incident because the French would have lost at 90-minutes. The next time someone says "dirty Dog" I'm gonna Zidane him...I Love my dog.
Time for video replay and some real justice.

Posted by: Mark from toronto on July 20, 2006 09:21 PM

For those who think a 3 game ban is a waste for Zidane it does put a wrench in any plans to unretire so in that regard it isn't a waste. No excuses - like in other sports where violent/moronic acts put a blemish on the sport - Soccer, organized professional sport and the fans are the only victims.

Posted by: Scott from Calgary on July 20, 2006 09:32 PM

I am not a soccer fan, though my husband is, but I think the penality given to the violonce of Zidane is just nothing... He is already retiring and they are setting the example for the young children that it is ok to lose temper, you'll be punished but not too much.. do ahead and lose your temper no porblem, the punishment is bearable.

Posted by: Christine from on July 20, 2006 09:44 PM

Two great players, while under great stress and pressure, made a mistake, each in his own way. The incident cannot be taken back but as always they will be evaluated by how they handle the outcome. There is no question that both Zidane and Materazzi behaved badly but FIFA has passed its judgement and I believe it is fair.

I rooted for France, and though I was dissappointed in Zizou at that moment, I still respect him as a player. Equally, I wish Italy a hearty congratulations - well done! Let us all move on and hope a lesson is learned in time.

Posted by: Paula from Toronto on July 20, 2006 09:52 PM

Zidane is extremely lucky not to have seriously injured Materazzi. Think for a second what we would be talking about if it were another horrific incident like Todd Bertuzzi on Steve Moore. If Materazzi doesn't get up we're debating whether or not Zidane should be criminally charged. That was no small message to Materazzi. Here's a guy who can head a ball 40 yards who stepped into Materazzi with all his might while the other guy was not ready. If he hits him in the right place he's not getting up.

But, Materazzi fortunately did get up, unlike Steve Moore. Now we can waste time on the blame game, lip readers from the tabloid news agencies, Golden Ball MVPs, and whether a 3 game vs 2 game penalty is enough. How lucky they both are.

Posted by: Larry from Toronto on July 20, 2006 10:01 PM

6000$ fine for zizou? 3 game suspension? lets be honest here, if he were the greatest player in the tournament, he would of been able to control himself. He should have lost the golden ball award. Don't get me wrong he is a great, amazing player, but that headbutt wasn't great, and I'm sure if it were the other way around, an Italian player would have lost the award. Did Mcbride say anything to provoke De Rossi to elbow him in the face? Italian supporterse admitted we were at fault there, why can't the zizou fans do the same? lets be honest here.

Posted by: Marcello from London on July 20, 2006 10:44 PM

The decision on Materazzi is outrageous and hypocrytical. How can one justify banning him for verbal insults during a fierce competition that were not racial or political in nature, when this kind of behavior has been an accepted part of nearly every professional sport for years??!! Even more importantly FIFA has basically downgraded the offence of extreme physical violance (with the intent to injur). This is a very dangerous precedent to set. SHAME on FIFA, SHAME on Zidane, and SHAME on France for justifying and supporting Zidane's violent reaction before the FIFA hearing....

Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite et.... Egoiste...

Once again France (the politicians more-so than the people) show that they are trite and petty...

Posted by: LP from Hong Kong from HongKong on July 20, 2006 10:47 PM

To all the people that have made comments and do not know Materazzi is the bigest punk in soccer these days. He gets a red card about every second game for kicking and tackeling oponents in violent ways. Maybe this does not justify what Zidane did but Materazzi had it long time comming, and he deserved fully what he got including the head butt.

Posted by: Adam Koves from Toronto on July 20, 2006 11:16 PM

In my opinion,they both got what they deserved. Zidane & Materazzi both really know how to get under people's skin. 2 famous people for on-field fights finally fought each other. They must have been going at it for a while during the game, which isn't unusual. But Zidane is sensitive at the heart. He has no fault for protecting his family from what was said - whatever was said. Materazzi, no matter what he said, didn't deserve that headbutt after all the hard work he's done into helping the team get this far - especially through the scandal. Though the punishments were handed out fairly, They were both at fault. For those who blame it on someone specifically... tsk tsk tsk. Nobody is the monster here. They're just 2 of the world's greatest players acting like human beings. By the way, congrats to Italy... and to France... you'll get 'em next time

Posted by: Frances from Ontario on July 20, 2006 11:22 PM

I find it really odd to read all of these letters from people planting themselves firmly on one side of the fence or the other. I would like to venture a guess, that probably 99% of the people who posted don't even know what the rules of the game are. In fact, as was mentioned by one writer, it is a cardable offence to "trash" talk in the sport of soccer, or in any sport for that matter. I have officiated both soccer and basketball for many years, and I'm here to tell you that it is expressly forbidden to trash talk. So why can they do it in the NBA, as an example, because the league allows it to happen, even though there is a rule against it. You never see that sort of thing go unpunished in college sports. The whole point of this entire incident is that sport has lost it's meaning...to be just that..sport. It's not living and dying as some people make it out to be. Maybe some of you, who think they know the game and the rules, should put on the referee's jersey sometime, and actually find out what it's like to be out on the field and REALLY understand the rules. You'll either do a good job or fall flat on your faces. As for the penalties...they both should have been red carded and suspended for the entire European Championships.

Posted by: referee from Calgary on July 20, 2006 11:28 PM

Zidane has earned his greatness and place in the history of soccer. Materazzi too has earned his asterisk.

Posted by: Ambrose from Toronto on July 20, 2006 11:34 PM

Why single out Materazzi ? Maybe FIFA should suspend every single player on every single team who made any kind of insult towards the other team.

But of course they had to go after Materazzi because Zidane is a hero and people worship the ground he walks on and therefore he can never do any wrong.

The sad thing is people honestly make excuses for Zidane's disgraceful and disgusting behaviour and will now raise their children to worship Zidane and copy his behaviour. Pathetic.

Posted by: Robert from Ottawa on July 21, 2006 12:23 AM

Why single out Materazzi ? Maybe FIFA should suspend every single player on every single team who made any kind of insult towards the other team.

But of course they had to go after Materazzi because Zidane is a hero and people worship the ground he walks on and therefore he can never do any wrong.

The sad thing is people honestly make excuses for Zidane's disgraceful and disgusting behaviour and will now raise their children to worship Zidane and copy his behaviour. Pathetic.

Posted by: Robert from Ottawa on July 21, 2006 12:24 AM

Slap on the wrist for Zidane. A player of his experience and talent would have heard it all, his actions were both unprofessional and disproportionate. Whatever the Italian said, was said to provoke that type of physical reaction. This is not a endorsement of Materazzi's comment, however, the real penalty was loosing the World cup.

Posted by: Carl from Calgary on July 21, 2006 12:29 AM

If you head but the guy , make sure he doesn't get up . If you drop the gloves be prepared to finish the fight . Footballers are all poseing whimps anyway . The fine meaningless and the crime inadaquate .

Posted by: Neil from on July 21, 2006 12:31 AM

Let's make no mistake about it, the decision by FIFA to ban Materazzi is political in its motivation. The decision reveals that protecting Zidane's angelic image is more important to FIFA than administering justice in a consistent, fair and balanced manner.

Verbal taunting of opponents is widespread in professional sports, and is accepted as being a fundamental aspect of athletic competition. Physical violence is NOT widespread in professional sports, and is NOT accepted as being a fundamental aspect of athletic competition. With this decision FIFA has suddenly and arbitrarily decided to disallow verbal taunting on the pitch after allowing it for years without punishment, and in the process has seemingly downgraded physical violence (a true crime) as an offense. Their message is clear and it is UNACCEPTABLE & SHAMEFUL!!

Posted by: Mumbai Kid from Mumbai on July 21, 2006 12:48 AM

Well from some comments made no matter the player people say materazzi was he score two goals with his head and a major penalty shot. He played well in the tournament and deserves some respect. The only reason why this one insult was penalized was because it was against zidane if it was anyone else it wouldn't have mattered...Lets not forget the head butt figo performed and got only a yellow for

Posted by: jason from Toronto on July 21, 2006 12:56 AM

Both players got what they deserved, Zidane a red card & the lost chance to win the game, Materazzi the head-butt. End of story. Most great athletes have a temper and spend a great deal of time trying to control it and re-direct that energy into their play. I think Zidane was tired of the BS and it got the best of him. FIFA made the right decision not making a big deal of it.
FIFA's biggest challange, if they want the game accepted in North America, is to end the fake injuries and diving.

Posted by: Matt Friesen from on July 21, 2006 01:17 AM

Trashtalking is part of the game, but classy athletes wouldn't do it. I would be happy to see that go. Physical aggression IS part of the game, more bench-clearing brawls when the situations call for them PLEASE..

Posted by: jzone from Vancouver on July 21, 2006 01:27 AM

Big Freakin' Deal!

Who cares! Violence is sometimes necessary. If a class act player like Z headbutts somebody...then he must have had it coming. I want to see more headbutting. I just think its funny that since its soccer and you're not allowed to use your hands, players who want to fight have to be more imaginative.

"So I was at this headbutting match and you'll never guess what happened...a soccer match broke out."

Posted by: Tony from Toronto on July 21, 2006 01:33 AM

No one has said a word about the referee - who has simply retired and therefore untouchable - he is the same chap who red carded Rooney of England - for another incident he didn't see - bit is alleged to have Rooney stamping on an attackers genitals - now if anyone stamps on my genitals I am sure that I would need some form of medical attention - instead - as soon as the red card was shown the victim was up and running around like a gazelle.
At the same time Rooney was tackling two men when the alleged "victim " slid in from the back in an illegal tackle - Rooney fell backwards !
The victims punishment - Nil - ?
That is some referee !

Posted by: Tom Canning from on July 21, 2006 01:56 AM

A great player blew his cool, gave a vicious head butt, and was taken out of the World Cup final and the last game he will ever play by a guy not even good enough to carry his jock strap. Now FIFA hands down joke suspensions and fines.It's a heartbreak turned into a farce.

Throughout the tournament referees were supposed to penalize players for dives but that hardly happened. Football is the beautiful game but all those dives and wimpy play acting by grown men make it laughable.

Those running football need to get their act together and stop this nonsense.

On another matter, where are all the women fans? There's only 2-3 of us who have contributed here.

Posted by: Pat from Edmonton on July 21, 2006 02:05 AM

Lets be honest, had the roles been reversed, Zidane would have been deemed a martyr, and materazzi a monster. In the grand scheme - it meant nothing anyway. The game was already over and it was Henry's replacement (Trezeguet) who missed the penalty. Zidane had much less of an impact on the game than people seem to think.

Posted by: Dem from Toronto on July 21, 2006 02:45 AM

Materazi is the very source and cause of all these, and one has every reason to suspect that his provoing insults was a well-planned dirty trick. Only thing is Mazi got away with a very light punishment. He should have been punished more severely. Some one-sided people who complained that Zidane was punished not enough deliberately turned a blind eye to the fact that Zidane was given a red card already and was most likely cheated away his and France's second World champion!!!!

On another note, Italy should be punished more severely for their shocking match-fixing scandal. It is a far more serioius matter. Italian national team should be banned from international games for at least 4 years to set a right example, imo.

Posted by: Xing Chen from USA on July 21, 2006 03:40 AM

Actually Italy should have been stripped off as a world cup winner, because they did not win they just played politics of racism and got the red card for Zidane. Go France Go....shame on you Italian Team.....you disgraced Italy by playing cheap politics rather than playin better football!

Posted by: Alex from Pickering on July 21, 2006 03:42 AM

Zidane fell for the oldest schoolboy prank in the book. His suspension is warranted as he is the one who resorted to violence. His actions should be reviewed by every coach in high school with his players. "Don't be this stupid guy."

Posted by: Rick from Shanghai on July 21, 2006 04:27 AM

How selfish of Zidane
to put his own ego ahead of
his country in a tied game
for the world championship.

Materazzi is like so many
average players, but Zidane...
we expected better. No matter
how hard he tries to shift the
focus to the provocation, it
remains a sad end to Zidane's
brilliant career.

Posted by: Duke from Vancouver on July 21, 2006 04:42 AM

"sticks and stones will break my bones but words can
never hurt me"...this is the mantra that should have
been taught to Zidane as a young child...Words are
words...but violence is something else altogether! We
are talking about freedom of speech here aren't we?
We don't know what Matterazi said...everything above is
just rumour and speculation...the fact is that Zidane
reacted in a very violent way that was unacceptable
especially when millions of people are watching!

Posted by: A Canadian in Europe from Europe on July 21, 2006 08:00 AM

it was unfortunate that Zidane lost his cool, but it was also unfortunate that Matarazzi played the way he did.

i feel that the punishment was fair for both and that FIFA did a good job on doling it out.

for those of us here saying that violence isn't part of the sport, which i do agree, with alot of us being canadian in this forum, i don't think we really have the right to make comments about it. Don't forget, Bertuzzi is still playing hockey

Posted by: alex from ontario on July 21, 2006 08:06 AM

Thank you FIFA. Having to listen to Materazzi's comments any longer like "terrorist? The only terrorist I know is my daughter." was like listening to someone run their finger nails down a chalk board. The guy is a classless individual and performed classless acts on one of the largest and widely acclaimed stages in the world. Now, if only Materazzi's mother could bring out the bar of soap, justice would truly be served.

Posted by: Mitch from Toronto on July 21, 2006 08:07 AM

Ridiculous, if FIFA is not against ITALY then explain this to me 1.FIFA gives TOTTI a 5 match ban in the Euro 2004(his first offence) and Poulsen gets nothing not even a hearing or investigation, ZIDANE (3rd such offence) gets the 2006 golden ball and Materazzi gets a two game suspension

Posted by: saverio rigillo from toronto on July 21, 2006 08:17 AM

I think that they made a very poor judgement of the situation. As someone who followed the World Cup I thought that it was rather obvious because the Italians are known to play rough through hard points in the game. Is it any wonder why Materazzi did what he did? I am sorry but I do not think it is a mystery. He was obviously trying to get to Zidane! I do not regard Materazzi well for not being honest about what he did! If he would admit what he did before the press got involved then I would not be writing these things!

Posted by: minE (age 11) from ottawa on July 21, 2006 08:38 AM

Zidane made a physical attack under provocation.
The Italian made a verbal attack without provocation.

I think they both got a fair judgement.

Posted by: S. Siddiqui from Toronto on July 21, 2006 08:41 AM

Finally some political correctness on the pitch. It's about time the sentitive players got some protection!!!

Posted by: Hellenic from Toronto on July 21, 2006 08:44 AM

Would Materazzi have been suspended if Zidane didn't react? I don't think so. So Materazzi gets punished for being head-butted. If insults are grounds for suspension and a fine then players should be able to just run up to the ref and say "he insulted my mom."

Posted by: Matt from Ottawa on July 21, 2006 09:07 AM

Sam from Montreal is 100% on the money. FIFA is sending a clear message that violence is OK

Posted by: doug from on July 21, 2006 09:22 AM

Why is everyone so down on Zidane? I think the headbutt was great! He was only kicked out because the FOURTH ref saw the video replay... now mouthing off might be part of any sport but if you look at it that way, Zidane shouldn't have been red carded since the refs on the field saw nothing. Materazzi deserved the headbutt... he tried to provoke Zidane into doing something stupid and succeeded. If provocation is a part of soccer, then soccer is far from being the "Beautiful game" they pretend it is.

Posted by: P-O from Ottawa on July 21, 2006 09:27 AM

Zidane was very lucky in my opinion. Plain and simply..Zizou is a Drama Queen!! If he was a real man , he simply had to answer back with equal tone and play and win the game for his team and Country or complain to the officials. I hope to never hear again of this Bebé Lala!!!

Posted by: Stallone from Montreal on July 21, 2006 09:32 AM

this is in response to luke from Paris who is obviously biased. You say that "soccer is another sport" alluding that it isn't violent and I gather you like watching Zidane. One point you've missed. Zidane has a history of violence and red cards. He went so far as to stomp on a player and also punched another during his career. Did Materazzi no this? Of course not. Barely anyone has. You want to see more of Zidane and less of Materazzi do you? Well I guess you really enjoy violence. Let me end on this note: Zidane committed a FIFA infraction by VIOLENTLY ATTACKING another player with the intent to harm him. Materazzi commetted no infraction by insulting him. Its in plain black and white in the FIFA rulebook. But of course when a superstar like Zidane is involved, the rules change. Goes to show the corruption of FIFA.

Posted by: doug from on July 21, 2006 09:32 AM

I have a question for Gladiator from toronto. Since you beleive, as do I that soccer is just another job or like business would it be OK for a coworker to give you a headbutt if you said something that he or she didn't like? That's the kind of message your post and FIFA is sending out to the world with this ridiculous ruling. personally I think if I head butted someone at work for caling my mommy something I'd get fired and the other person would probably get a verbal warning. This is a very big difference in punishment. However FIFA decided to give Materazzi a bigger penalty(zidane is retired and therefore doesnt get suspended) yet materazzi gets 2 games. Seems a little unfair to me

Posted by: doug from on July 21, 2006 09:46 AM

I read a few of the comments posted earlier. Some basically said "C'mon guys, what Materazzi said wasn't racial!" So what are you saying? If Materazzi had called Zidane an Islamic terrorist, the headbutt would've been OK?

And honestly, what if Materazzi had said he hoped Zidane's mother died of some illness (this is what I heard was said, who knows whether it's true) wouldn't that be worse than calling Zidane a terrorist?

Let's face it. Zidane blew it. He was punished. Materazzi won that battle, but only because the ref and FIFA let him. I'm told (and it was mentionned in a previous post) that swearing, or insulting a player on the pitch is a cardable offence. If the ref had been more vigilant, he would have sent Materazzi packing before the "incident" would have occurred.

I'm no expert when it comes to soccer, but in my opinion, until something is done about the trash talking and diving, soccer doesn't stand a chance at becoming popular in North America. The rules are there, the refs and FIFA have to enforce them!

Posted by: Marc from Ottawa on July 21, 2006 10:03 AM

I've played soccer for many years, and I'd like to think I know the rules pretty well. Verbal abuse is not apart of the game. Tactical guidelines and books do not give tips on the best way to 'get inside another player's head' through words. Admittedly, it exists in the game, but it should never be a part of the game - and hopefully FIFA's actions set precedence to help eradicate this dishonourable and dirty practice.

And yes, Italy did win the World Cup, but they did not win because they had the skills and endurance to play the game better. With the exception of Zidane's disgraceful conduct, France played more admirably and with more skill and grace than any of the Italian players.

Posted by: Sarah from on July 21, 2006 10:03 AM

The only person that is effectively punished here is Materazzi, and he wasn't the one that resorted to violence. So thanks FIFA for sending the message loud and clear that egregious conduct by "star players" will be dealt with with "straw" punishments. In my opinion, had Zidane been another player with less star power he would have been dealt with appropriately. I find solace in the fact that Zidane ended his career on a vile note and that despite an illustrious run as a footballer he will also be remembered for this dispicable act.

Posted by: Victoria from Winnipeg on July 21, 2006 10:15 AM

If you're the only french football star and backed by french football you can get away with assault. He should have received 10X the punishement when compared to other infractions and had his undeserved trophy taken away.
pui to youi

Posted by: antifrench footbal fan from Toronto on July 21, 2006 10:18 AM

Finally...a soccer injury that's real!

Posted by: Danny Labelle from on July 21, 2006 10:26 AM

Why do people justify Materazzi's actions as "part of the game," just because he supposedly didn't say anything racial. Maybe everyone here doesn't have close ties with their family. But if someone starts taking it too personal then don't be surprised if their punished on the field and off the field. Zidane's mother's has been reported that she could die soon. There's no need to start insulting her and talking about her dieing. Personally, I think Zidane should have aimed for his nose or mouth instead of his chest. Materazzi is a disgrace to Italians everywhere. He had that coming for awhile. The fines and punishment are slaps on the wrist to both players.

An for those who think you should ignore any comments. Then the I hope when someone really close and important to you is about to die, someone comes up and starts insulting them to your face. Let's see how tough your skin is then!!

Posted by: Jeremy from Toronto on July 21, 2006 10:30 AM

How sad to read some comments. Everyone is justifying Zidane's actions when he was in the wrong. Yes, he's a great player, but to act violently when the world is watching is inexcusable. No one even knows what Materazzi said but yet, everyone is bad mouthing him. To support Zidane is supporting violent actions on and off the field and what is this teaching our children? FIFA should of given him a stiffer fine.
The game is over and Italy won, get over it.

Posted by: d from toronto on July 21, 2006 10:32 AM

A symbolic gesture, after all the wrigling on the ground, Materazzi was up one minute later. He obviosly was not hurt. To those who think that anything goes, nipple twisting then slurs. This flying fool Materazzi went flying across Zidane's back a few times and had him marked. That is not how football is to be played, the game is disgraced.An on field retaliation was left there and a great walked off the field with grace. He took his punishment. With it all said and done, Zidane's mother is not well and family sickness is a very stressfull time. That is his reality now. Materazzi returns to an Italian league full of corruption and his brutal play.
13 players from the Italian squad,play on teams found guilty of game fixing. Playing with your head and your feet only, is how football should be played. Betting against yourself or trying to incite or hurt other players or diving are not admirable football qualities.

Posted by: Liverpool Fan from Newmarket on July 21, 2006 10:51 AM

Zidane's actions were SHAMEFUL, SELFISH and STUPID. He is the reason the French lost the game, and he should be embarassed by his child-like behaviour. What could the Italian possibly have said that couldn't wait until after the game?

As captain of a team in the World Cup final, in the biggest game of the biggest tournament in the entire world, he must keep his cool.

Could you imagine if Mario Lemieux took his stick and cracked Mike Modano in the face in the gold medal game in Salt Lake 2002?

I am glad the French lost afer seeing that ridiculous incident.

BRASIL = 2010 champions !!!

Posted by: Tango Tiago from Calgary on July 21, 2006 10:57 AM

Why didn't they give Zidane the same thing they gave to Figo who also gave someone a head-butt... but to the head instead of the chest... nothing. Just a yellow card.

The disgraceful behaviour of grown men (all vets who should be used to such trash talk by the way) aside, the officiating needs to be reviewed as a whole.

Posted by: Richard from Montreal on July 21, 2006 11:19 AM

Zidane gets punished twice for the same offence...this hardly seems fair. the italians win partly because of this incident which involved verbal abuse which is a cardable offence. as a former referee, im appalled that with the high number of cards issued during this world cup, the diving issue was hardly addressed which is also cardable. i would suggest that if not for the penalty in the australian game, the italians wouldnt have made it this far on their football skill.

Posted by: tom marriott from on July 21, 2006 11:24 AM

FIFA's decision was a tragedy. The world governing body of football had an obligation to show to the public that violence on and off the field can never be permitted. Instead, FIFA demonstrated that violence and foul language are virtually identical in their level of severity.

The further trajedy displayed by FIFA was not stripping Zidane of the Golden Ball voted on by jounalists at half-time during the final match. The Golden Ball is awarded to the most outstanding player of the tournament, the one who displays the highest quality of soccer on the field. Zidane's action in extra time displayed the lowest quality of soccer on the field.
Virtually every journalists who voted for Zidane revealed that they would not have voted for the French player had the vote been taken after the final whistle.

Let justice be served, not ignored.

Posted by: Yvan from Toronto on July 21, 2006 11:30 AM

Ok, here's a little thought for all of you who are upset that Matarazzi was punished at all: He's one of the more vicious, dirty players known playing the game today! Count the number of players he has either purposely tried to physically hurt in one way or another and has gotten away with it and you'll be finding that it would be well into the hundreds. Many players say he is someone they want on his side, but never want to play against him because of his dirty tactics! People, he most certainly is deserving of more of a penalty.

What this whole incident proves is that the referee cannot hear, see or call everything - thus, have a 2 refereee system much like what the NHL has in place! It's the only way to be able to catch a dirty player like Matarazzi from taking advantage of holding, gouging, pinching, stomping and verbally abusing anyone in his vicinity. I take nothing away from the final outcome, however there is just too much garbage that goes on behind the play and too much 'acting' that could be decreased by another referee.

Posted by: D.M. from Wpg on July 21, 2006 11:36 AM

Too late, too bad...so sorry Fifa..The game of the century. World wide audience. You let it get away. Any chance of soccer being referred to as "the beautiful game" went out the window when Zidane pressed his noggin into the Italian's chest. The problem of taunts and jabs has no place in sports and should have been taken care of years ago. Punishment...how about each player replying to every letter sent to them, apologizing for their antics that stained what should have been a memorbale World Cup.

Posted by: eddy from on July 21, 2006 12:21 PM

UNFAIR!! This is a Joke

Materazzi get 2 games for VERBAL distraction. Two "real" games off.

Zidane get 3 game "purely symbolic" for PHYSICAL VIOLANCE. However reduced to 3 days of community service work with children. This is not a punishment but an opportunity for a public campaign to try to show Zidane as a soft humanitarian person.
I ask, should a PHYSICAL VIOLANCE person be allowed to mix with children?? And Teach them how to head-butt! He should not be allowed near children!

FIFA has shown that it does not to have any scene of fair judgement and certainly that it does not have a back bone. Judgements should be reserved for real Judges.

However, let’s close this ugly page and move on.

Patrick, Laval

Posted by: Patrick from on July 21, 2006 01:13 PM

It is a bad decision; one that makes me think that, for FIFA (and in general), “status” matter. Yes, it is ridiculous that FIFA “punishes” Zidane with a three-match ban! They know, and we all know that he is retired. A real punishment and a great example for the future of Futbol would have been taking away Zidane’s “Golden Ball”. Was FIFA afraid? Yes, they were afraid of punishing the French team’s captain, the person who undoubtedly has been a great Futbol player, but who, now we know, was raised as an idol-player status without considering the real person that he really is, as learnt with is action. A gentleman, as they wanted us to believe he was, would have not engaged in that act regardless of how strong the “insults” might have been. So, that is the lesson: an international organization without “guts” and an international careless Futbol idol-player without respect for his public.

Alfonso Rivera, from Quebec City July 21, 2006

Posted by: Alfonso Rivera from on July 21, 2006 01:19 PM

The only thing these postings have convinced me of is the French fans are sore losers!!!

Posted by: Greek from Canada on July 21, 2006 01:42 PM

Oh get off it. In battle between top athletes there is a psychology of war happening, like it or not. How come nobody gives a damn if two hockey players beat each other bloody? in fact many people actually buy videos of the best hockey fights. Why is pro soccer suposed to be any more non-violent than hockey? In many peoples' opinion the incident should have earned Zidane a mere ten minutes for fighting, in a penalty box. And kudos to Materazzi for being able to annoy Zidane enough to have the opponents' best player disqualified. Call it a tacical victory.

Posted by: Dan Rusen from on July 21, 2006 01:43 PM

Bravo FIFA for addressing not only the headbutt, but also the offensive, insulting, or abusing language Materazzi was using. Ladies and gentlemen, check your Laws of Football (available on the FIFA website for free!) and refer to Law 12 (Fouls and Misconduct) under Sending-Off Offenses. Zidane was guilty of #2, and Materazzi of #6. They were both suspended and fined, and Zidane's punishment was appropriately more severe. Again, bravo FIFA for dealing with the complete situation.

Posted by: Josh Smith from on July 21, 2006 01:55 PM

I Haven't clearly understood why the fifth official claims that he did not use the video replay to have Zidane sent out.
Materazzi deserves the two match ban and Zidane too deserves his three. What made the Italian provoke the Frenchman is fear and ignorance and so is football governing body unable for sure to trim any of those instead the victim who was Materazzi to escape the red card he would have registered for the fear and ignorance. Without him uttering any non of our language- football insults, he would have not been banned. Many Italians see that Materazzi is their hero, why? Because he played in and out of the "GREAT TALISMAN OF ALL TIME" dismissal whose presence meant that accept it or not, he will lift the cup for France!
The whole world including Italy knew this, Zidane could not match with their own Cannavaro or Totti or Toni, infact he is three of them put together. In Kenya while the superstar used to play at Real Madrid, we gave him the name BABA- meaning the real master and playmaker of a another superstar full team. FIFA also rhymes well with the feelings of many human kinds around the world that, it would not be wise to strip him off the adidas Golden ball award it awarded his greatest icon of all time. Italian keeper Buffon is surely humane and a true football player FIFA have ever had, he encouraged his compatriot Barthez during the shootout BUT he really played a key role to the sending of Zidane without really understanding what had happened after fuming bitterly to the referee who went to inquire from the about the incident from the idle official in the sidelines of the spectacular stadium pitch in Berlin.
For Zidane, he left a major legacy of not being among the few to score in two WC final games BUT the greatest icon in football history of the 21st century. LONG LIVE ZIDANE AND YOUR FAMILY!!

Posted by: James from Nairobi on July 21, 2006 01:56 PM

i was so disspointed about Zidane's atitude. as a great player he should control his temper. at the end he lost his credibility.

Posted by: rosi from on July 21, 2006 03:09 PM

I think Italy ruined the party for FIFA - a France vs Germany final with Zidane going out in a blaze of glory. Think about it. Both countries - Germany and France had many officiating calls go their way throughout the tournament. Zidane is the athletic representative of Adidas and Adidas is the main sponsor of the world cup. The golden ball is actually the Adidas Golden Ball Award. Germany, the host country had a lot on the line - money wise in this tournament. FIFA runs the world cup like a business and money talks. Italy against all these odds, fought hard and won. They surprised many in this tournament.
Look at the FIFA punishment. Zidane gets community service and three games which is nothing because he is retired for physical abuse and a measly fine. Materazzi gets two games and a fine. Favoritism at its finest.
Nevertheless, Italy is on the record books as champions and nobody can take that away from them unless of course FIFA takes that away from them.

Posted by: Mario from Ontario on July 21, 2006 03:42 PM

Life is not fair people - so just get use
to it. Materazzi plays dirty and thats all to it. Zidane snapped and he did what he had to do. The best of us have our bad days. And don't tell me you don't!!!

I just wish we had a Canadian Soccer team representing us - then we would show the Italians and the French how real men play a
game with cool sophistication and raw power.

Posted by: Del from Toronto on July 21, 2006 04:06 PM

Good, but still should have been bigger fine and ban for Materazzi, to give a message for the all football players in the world to watch thier mouths and respect thier oponents.

Posted by: mohammad from montreal on July 21, 2006 04:10 PM

You people who are using this incident againt the sport are RIDICULOUS and CHILDISH! Soccer is still the beautiful game. Don't judge the sport by one players actions.

The Next world cup in Africa is going to be awesome! I can't wait!

I guarantee you the players won't do this diving anymore come next world cup and furthermore if any of you who made these comments watched the world cup towards the end- a lot of it stopped. ITALy WAS NOT DIVING!!!! Get real! Did you watch the game? or is everyone else telling you this or going on past experiences. Italy played very well!

Don't say your not going to watch the world cup or soccer because of this one incident...your only hurting yourselves not anyone else, and the sport doesn't need people like you. Obviously your not a true fan of the game. Just a bandwagoner like most of the people in Canada...only tune in once every 4 years and don't even bother to suppor professional clubs across Canada. Shame Shame!

Posted by: Fabio from Calgary on July 21, 2006 04:15 PM

enough already. this is ggetting a little weird. it happened, it's over, can the media find something interesting to report other then blowing this up over and over again. time to mopve on please

Posted by: john telford from edmonton on July 21, 2006 04:41 PM

VERY DISAPPOINTED! Is that not just like a governing body to come up with a ridiculus, face saving solution! I seriously worried about the precedent that this decision will have on future sporting events and other sports in general. I can see it now...one player physically strikes another player and claims the defence of trash talk. Zidane may have been insulted but that is no excuse to elevate the situation to violence! Using that logic would only justify other similar violence in the future of all sports. FIFA should never have brought disciplinary action on Materazzi no matter how popular and talented a player Zidane is/was. Zidane was clearly in the wrong! Would the decision be the same if Materazzi suffered a broken a rib, internal bleeding...etc? Trash talk is an accepted part of the game, retalliation is not (although it may be expected).

Posted by: Riz from Canada on July 21, 2006 04:47 PM

Issue: Some guy head butted some other guy for saying something, what's the punishement?
Analysis: In public places, you put your good hat on. Whether it's on a school yard or world cup stage, violence is never acceptable, never. Zidane is a great player, who has also had a carded past, but very talented. Zidane is wealthy, famous, and is going to live well. So whatever we say is essentially irrelevant to his legacy. In this instance, Materazzi said something to him, and he reacted with violence. Some here have said Materazzi was a racist. Well, prove it. Where is your objective and verifiable evidence of such statements? Even if he did say something racist, violence is not the answer. That would have been something Zidane should have reported after the game to expose Materazzi for ignorance. However, even Zidane has not claimed this. It is ridiculous to penalize someone for trash talking in a game, because if this rule was to be applied consistently, the world cup would have suspended countless players. If you ever played sports, or if you ever played in a school yard, people make nasty comments. Under no circumstance do you suddenly resort to violence because your feelings are hurt. What kind of a lesson and non-apology did Zidane give by saying "sorry to the kids, but I don't regret it"? That's what a punk on the street says, not a world class soccer player in front of an enormous audience.
Recommendation: Let Zidane live his life, reverse Materazzi's punishment unless this applies to all players under FIFA accountability.

Posted by: Stephen from Toronto on July 21, 2006 05:22 PM

FIFA set a precedent now fifa must suspend anyone that trash or talk. Everyone defend Zidane, he was red carded 10 times once before for head butting a German Player when he played for Juventus. How can you suspend a player for talking only Materazzi and Zidane will know what it was said

Posted by: O Brasca from on July 21, 2006 05:48 PM

I dont understand why Materazzi was suspended at all. Trash talk goes on in every sport. What message does this give to children, if someone insults you, you may hit them back (and both we will both punished equally). And a suspension for a retired players is just silly, sure he will do some community service or whatever, but how does this punish team France, when team Italy will actually lose an active player.

Posted by: Neil Fowlie from on July 21, 2006 06:25 PM

Yes, it matters. The ban against Zidane is needed not so much for its own sake, but as an example to others.

As for Materazzi's ban, yes, it does make him responsible. Baiting a player to aassault you in order to get him red-carded is not and should never be acceptable, and I'm glad Fifa has taken this stand.

Posted by: Nov from Israel on July 21, 2006 06:37 PM

Way to go FIFA. If people like myslf did not know who FIFA was, now we do. Free publicity doesn't hurt anyone. The cup was given out, Zidane went on t.v and said nothing of great interest as a true sportsman. As for Materazzi he also had not much to say about the incident.
FIFA, if you bunch of cowboys lose your jobs there maybe there will be a job in publicity work.
P.S. Let the players be.

Posted by: John from Toronto on July 21, 2006 07:02 PM

I think it's typical Italian fan behaviour to think racism,taunting,and belligerent attitudes is proper conduct in international sport. You fans are the problem!!! I think Materazzi should have been suspended for half the season. ZZ fined 100,000pounds for his actions and 18 days in fifa community service....that would be proper punishment.
It's time all the clowns who call themselves fans of football realize that the trash talking on the field needs to end. If you have the talent it should be shown on the field of play with your skill not speed of mouth

Posted by: taechee from manitoba on July 21, 2006 08:02 PM

On Zidane's Headbutt,he shouldnt of done that.Materazzi Shouldnt of said anything to zidane,but they should be banned from a few matches.France wouldnt of lost in the shootout if zidane didnt do anything(like the headbutt).Thierry Henry was also hurt which he was also one of the best players but we shouldnt remember that incident and we should remember the Germany FIFA World Cup 2006.

Posted by: Sunny from Burnaby on July 21, 2006 08:10 PM

Conflict resolution through violence. Our kids are inundated with it now a days from video games to that ridiculous wrestling on TV. Big time soccer star with no class, there are so many of them in professional sport. His actions say a lot, the fine, nothing.

Posted by: Dave Willson from on July 21, 2006 09:31 PM

To Adam Koven
with all due respect Materazzireceives is shares of red cards. Monsieur Zidane is a repeat offender with head butting and other violent action during is time at Juventus and during World Cup 1998 . Please follow football and attend the games

Posted by: OJB from on July 21, 2006 10:01 PM

First of all I would like to thank Italy for their great performance & and win...

Now, I can't get over the fact that so many people are making Zidane the victim here. Are you people for real???? Do you think Materazzi was the only one who through insults around??? But was Zidane the only one to re-act the way he did???....YES! POINT FINALE!!!!The reason everyone is so curious about what was said, is because of Zizou's barberic reaction...."Ooh Materazzi must have really offended Zizou"... Big deal it isn't the 1st and it won't be the last time either. Insults are always thrown around during a game in any sport, it's just how it is...anyone that thinks differ has never played a sport in their life!!!! Get with the program people...Fifa's decision is basically teling us that violence is ok to use, if we are being insulted!!! Bravo!!! Zidane should be ashamed of his actions, what a stupid & unprofessional way for him to end his career! Chapeau Zizou! He fell right into Materazzi's trap, with all his years of experience you would think he'd be smarted than that and let it go or try get on Materazzi's nerves..Instead once again he lost his COOL!!!! (2nd headbutt incident of his career). I'm sure you all remember when Totti spat on a player...No one cared about what was said to him, he got penalized for that and everyone made such a stink....he wasn't right for doing so, but did anyone ever ask about what was said to him??? No of course not. Why didn't they hire lip readers for that?? This whole incident got out of porportion only because Zizou was playing his last game before retiring..Fifa had to make a decision that would save his reputation a little....so they punish Materazzi as well so that Zizou won't look like the only bad guy here....whatever, everyone including Zidane, knows he was wrong and that's a fact. Zizou, keep your golden ball & Italy will keep their World Cup which you will never see or have again to hold!!

Posted by: Lina from Montreal on July 21, 2006 11:43 PM

You get sent off in the finals of the world cup, falling for the oldest trick in the book(if we can call it a trick, for both players did exchange remarks, except one reacted violently). You let your team and country down (being France's #1 penalty kicker, not that it would make any difference-italy were perfect for once going 5 for 5), and this makes you the tournament's mvp? You weren't your team's mvp,(only 1 1/2 great games- I can think of 20 players who had at least 1 1/2 great games) let alone the tournament's mvp. Don't get me wrong, I think Zidane is one of the greatest footballers ever, but let us be objective, he was great for 135 minutes not more, and certainly not worthy of the golden ball.
I believe he was exhausted, frustrated having his header stopped (if he had scored like 1n '98 and won the WC he would become part of the holy trinity of football along with Pele and Maradona) and perhaps still hurting from that fall. Many are trying to justify his surreal reaction considering the setting and the timing, but he is only a man and as much as I'd like to believe he did it for his family's honour, the fact is he should care less what Materazzi's feelings are regarding his family, he simply screwed up and many ZZ fans cannot swallow that. Obviously both players' reputations decided fifa's rulings (I still don't know how Materazzi got investigated, look at Holland vs Portugal or Argentina vs Germany , both matches should have had a dozen fines and bans each), which is sad for the sport, but was is worst is that this incident has overshadowed a triumphant 4th world cup for the italians.

Posted by: pat from montreal on July 22, 2006 12:49 AM

by the way adam I have never been a fan of Materazzi do get your facts straight, although he plays hard, sometimes challenges clumsily and has been booked with yellows, has received only one red card in the last five years before picking one up in Germany.

Posted by: pat from montreal on July 22, 2006 01:17 AM

Re:Adam Koves from Toronto
Zidane is no angle, he has been red carded no fewer than 12 times in his career and you are absolutely right Materazzi got what he deserved, that is the World Cup,

Posted by: Nick from on July 22, 2006 10:51 AM

For:Karan from Montreal
If you were watching a youth soccer match at a local pitch, and a kid that you cared about received a broken nose because he/she was trash talking, would you be singing the same tune. I think not, anything can happen in the heat of the moment I agree, but violence is not the answer. If Zidane wanting to get back at Materazzi he should have won the World Cup, and then taunted him with it.

Posted by: N Mara from on July 22, 2006 11:06 AM

One thing that has really bothered me about the coverage of this incident and a lot of the opinions on this Message Board are that people continue to believe that the comments made by Materazzi were of a racist, political, or religious nature. If you still think this then you outrightly ignoring the facts. Zidane denied the comments were racist in his TV interview, and FIFA confirmed it in their ruling. What more proof is needed? Wake up people! Stop pulling out the non-existent race card in order to justify Zidane's loss of cool!
Also, apparently Zidane called the referee in the France-Portugal game a "son of a whore"--i.e. he insulted the ref's mom--the exact thing Zizou is claiming Materazzi did to him! Oh Zizou as much as I admired you, some of your lustre has worn off for me...
Lastly, there is way too much inconsistency on the part of FIFA and the many calls and punishments they gave (or did not give) to players who committed comparable offences throughout the tournament. FIFA please get your calls straight so that you (and soccer) don't lose any more credibility.

Posted by: Lisa from Toronto on July 22, 2006 01:50 PM

Who cares, It is true Zidanes action was terrible wrong and why punish Materazzi for being a smart ass, but the thing that most matters is that Italia is the Champion and they work hard to get ther goal! Forza Azzurra and once again showed the world that we are a team to respect and admire! Thank to each player every single one of them made a difference.

Posted by: Dany A. Galietta from on July 22, 2006 05:25 PM

These punishments are ridiculous.... what would have happened if Maradona did half of what Zidane did? FIFA would have punished him with public execution... hypocresy.....

Posted by: Horacio from Calgary on July 22, 2006 06:19 PM

I love Zizou too but what he did was inexcusable. And for Fifa to punish the victim of his PHYSICAL violence is shameful. They are sending a dangerous message to young children. There is a reason why this is unprecedented: If they were to penalise every footballer who has ever trash-talked an opponent by insulting unknown family members or whoever, they would spend the rest of their lives in hearings. And what will they do the next time someone headbutts or breaks somebody's leg because of an allegedly "defamatory" insult? Will they say "oh, we can't do anything about that because you're not Zinedine Zidane"? It seems to me that Fifa desperately needed to save face after setting up this perfect fairy-tale exit for Zidane (awarding him a GB that should have gone to Cannavaro is just one example). But no award or even a crime on the pitch can add or take away anything from the fact that Zizou is a football magician and one of the greatest players that ever lived. So Fifa's actions were unnecessary and showed undue bias, which is a shame for the sport. I don't think we've heard the end of this either, because Daniele de Rossi was banned for 4 matches for an accidental elbow. The video replays of the Zidane incident show pure anger and intent to harm. No matter how trivial the Matterazzi-Zidane situation may seem, the injustice and lack of consistency in Fifa's sentencing are alarming and set a dangerous precent for the sport. The Italian Federation should fight this decision.

Posted by: Karen from on July 22, 2006 08:46 PM

All you needed to do was to watch how unsportsmanlike the Italians play, especially against us, to understand the great Zidane's decision to get even. Understanding French-Algerian history, I also don't blame Zidane for reacting. Didn't anyone notice that just before the headbutt Zidane was blatantly fouled by the alleged victim? And the ref didn't call it? That he was being fouled the whole game long?. I agree completely with Sanjay, Bezren and Zidane lover. There is no place for racism on the field and that is one of the things Germany wanted to avoid at all costs, except it didn't reckon with the Italians, thirteen of whose national players are involved in ongoing corruption cases back home, and who were (until this victory (?)) subject to being relegated to second and third league teams as punishment. What you do off the field ends up appearing again on the field. The Italians were and are well known for their dramatic, injured-swanlike falls at the slightest touch (called "Schwalbe=Swallow" here), and that is what this one did. If Zidane had backed off and pawed the ground like a bull and then charged it would be different. It took several seconds for the insult to sink in before he did anything. Why didn't the ref look at the rest of the game to establish and explanation for Zidane's action? I think it was perfectly justified and certainly did not hurt the Italian player. Definitly not anything like the elbow one of the US guys got from an Italian, who deseervedly got the red card. None of the other many fans who saw this along with me agreed with the ref's decision; indeed, most were under the impression that it was a planned action on the part of the Italians, knowing that Zidane would hurt them during the penalty kicks. Going back in history, this is not the first time the Italian team has gotten away with something like this. Every one knows who the real winners are.
FIFA should have taken Materazzi's medal and slapped him with a 6 month ban.

Posted by: Henry from on July 23, 2006 10:16 AM

its a hidden part of the game. when you are going up against a player as good as zizi, you want to get under his skin. everyone does it from beer leagues to professional. the fine for materazzi was the worst decision i have seen. noone proved what he said, it was ziz's word against his. also zidane should of been fined extra instead of missing games, being retired and all and the french team should of been band from euro for his stupid action.
VIVA ITALIA

Posted by: marco from on July 23, 2006 01:12 PM

First of all, that's not how you throw a headbutt. That deserves a fine. Materazzi went down like Zidane's head was a shotgun blast. That deserves a fine. As far as name calling goes, suck it up nancy.

Posted by: D Maitre from on July 23, 2006 07:40 PM

Hey Teachee in Manitoba.
Too many black fly bites I guess or you are as ignorant as the post you submitted. Read all posts as you will see that Italian fans are not condoning what Materazzi did but questioning the sympathy of ZZ fans and his apparent justification for his actions. As for fans conduct perhaps you may point your finger to English fans and their beloved Hooligans who reek havoc where ever England plays. Or even the Spanish league fans with their belligerent racist remarks of black players in their leagues –including their home team! Read and learn before you post such stupidity and nonsense!

Posted by: soccer fanatic from Woodbridge on July 23, 2006 10:06 PM

I love the game of soccer, but I do not like the game it has become. Throughout all the postings the last couple and in discussions I have had with people, I continue to hear or read these three things:

1. Diving is part of the game.
2. Faking injury is part of the game.
3. Making personal insults to your opponents is part of the game.

Well if this is the truth about the current game. I am not sure how much longer I will be passionate about it. To all those that say these things...."You can have this game." Please clean up this game.

Posted by: Keith from Windsor on July 24, 2006 08:28 AM

what a joke. the mans retiring. he was the only one at fault. part of the game is controling one's emotions. the golden boot was not deserved. move on.

Posted by: fred from peterborough on July 24, 2006 08:28 AM

I'm more appalled by the ignorant and arrogant attacks against the whole game of soccer because of this incident. Non-soccer fans for some reason feel the need to berate the game at every turn; the players are wimps; the players dive; not enough goals; not enough punishment; it's not like hockey...etc.

What's wrong with you people, you don't like it, then don't watch it. Why is it necessary for you to put the sport down. Do you feel threatened by it for some reason, or are you just envious that hockey does not have the worldwide appeal soccer does? Is it because Canada sucks at it that you feel the need to dismiss the whole sport? I don't understand the logic?

Soccer is a beautiful game, its the only world game, winning the soccer world cup brings your nation prestige from around the world. Canada should be so fortunate.

Posted by: Octagon from Toronto on July 24, 2006 09:40 AM

First of all, Zidane has had more success than most footballers, ever. Period. No question he will be remembered for his dazzling play, determination and big goals.
However, his reputation will be besmirched and muddied by the dumb move he put on Materazzi in front of the world's eyes. Sorry, but that was dumb, even if the aggressor is a so-called 'legend. As I see it, if you or I had assaulted someone in the same manner as Zidane did, we would be handcuffed and our a$$ dragged to a police station. Had we said something insulting to someone on the street, well, most likely we would have been ignored. Zidane over-reacted in a major way. Pity.
Maybe Fifa felt they had to send a message to all footballers, so they punished Materazzi, too. Maybe a single game, or a fine would have been a just sentence for the Materazzi, not two competitve games. That means Materazzi won't be able to play in the Euro qualifying match against France in September. This is a pity, too, because I would have loved to see Marco score on the French again. Zidane you lost more than your temper on July 9th: your team lost the game and you lost much respect from all of us who enjoy the 'beautiful game' and your President Chirac lost his credibility in defending your aggression. Too bad.
Anybody want to hook up for an espresso and gelato on St. Clair ? Italia champion of the world; this makes me so happy. Arrivederci.

Posted by: hillbilly from Toronto on July 24, 2006 10:41 AM

For all those who think soccer is a wimp sport, try this experiment at home. Have an 80kg man put on a pair of soccer shoes, have this man run at you full speed and lunge at your angle. If you feel no pain and can walk away immediately, then you truly are a tough individual, if you can't then at least you learned a valuable lesson!!!

Posted by: Octagon from Toronto on July 24, 2006 10:47 AM

The Great Zidane, what a player, so many achievements, so many razzle dazzle plays, playing for France, a country known for its cowardess in war and reluctancy to involve itself in international affairs. Zidane, to say the least has finally proven that the French are not cowards, but only babies.
In addition, Zidane has tarnished his once great career. Trash talk is a part of the game, so as long as one does not use racially motivated insults. It is apparent that this is not the case as Zidane did not say so. Over an insignificant insult, which had no basis and was probably meant to get Zidane out of the game, Zidane jeopardized France's chances of glory and ended his career being known as one of the most disappointing atheletes in the history of sport. Now get serious French fans, theoretically, if Zidane shrugged off the insult and scored the game winning goal with a minute left in extra time, he would have been deemed the greatest soccer player of all time and probably one of the greatest athletes of all time. Now, the French are holding on to a player who CAUSED France to lose the game, as the French coach took out Henry and there were two players that were surely needed for the shootout. Zidane was not supposed to do that. Zidane is a loser, not a winner, a baby, not a coward, and a disappointment to French fans, not an achievement.

Posted by: Stefano L from Toronto on July 24, 2006 11:28 AM

alex from pickering, give your head a shake. Italy should be stripped of the world cup. Italy had the best team in the tournament, and the best player Cannavaro, just because of Materazzi's actions you feel the whole team should be punished. France is a dirty a cheap team, had you watched their games. Cheap calls, diving, acting and violence(the head butt). This blog is all about Italian bashers. Stop the jealousy and accept that Italy are world powers in soccer. Italy is a great place and fantastic people, everyone loves to hate Italy, even FIFA, why, because everyone wishes they were Italian, Viva l'Italia.

Posted by: anwar from Toronto on July 24, 2006 11:30 AM

FIFA people are really a bunch of arrogants: an italian player had 4 days (and rigthly so!) for accidentally hurting during the play his american opponent, and Zidane had 3 for his intentional headbutt? Totti had 5 days (and rightly so!) for spitting after being provoked all the time by a danish player who had no suspension or anything, and Materazzi has 2 days for verbal non-racist provocation, perhaps the first time in soccer history? And all the polticians in France congratulate with Zidane, and he gets the golden ball, and he is invited to represent FIFA before kids as an alternate "punishment"? This is an insult to soccer, to fair-play and to italians.

Posted by: Luk from on July 24, 2006 12:27 PM

To Xing Chen from USA, post on July 21, 2006 03:40am.
Before you make such absurd comments saying that the Italian National team should be banned for four years from International competions to set a right example, please listen to yourself what you are saying is completely absurd, the Italian National team has nothing to do with the match-fixing scandal back in Italy, and if you were informed you would know that none of the players on the National team are involved or have been implicated in the scandal!!You know nothing about FUTBAL, so please take your stupid comments elsewhere ,and stick to the sport that you Americans like best, NFL Pathetic Football!!

Posted by: Mary D. from on July 24, 2006 02:40 PM