Different countries, flags, stars, fans...
The World Cup always arrives with special excitement. Each tournament has its own unique characteristics and story.
But in my opinion, one of the most distinctive tournaments with mystical stories was the 2006 World Cup.
Let me note from the beginning that the 2006 World Cup is considered one of the last tournaments of the era before football was fully industrialized. For many superstars, this was their last international tournament. Elite players of the era like Beckham, Figo, Roberto Carlos, Ronaldo, Del Piero appeared at a World Cup for the last time.
That year, the Champions League was won by Ronaldinho's Barcelona. The Brazilian magician was number one in everyone's eyes. Everyone expected a show from him at the World Cup.
Another big expectation was England. Lampard and Gerrard, who had completed the top three behind Ronaldinho in the Ballon d'Or race a year earlier, created great hope with their level.
This tournament was also the first World Cup for Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi.
France did not enter the tournament as a main favorite. Although the squad was strong, Brazil, England and host Germany were considered more realistic favorites. France had been champions in 1998, but failed to advance from the group stage in the next World Cup.
Some time before the tournament, the team's leader Zidane had decided to end his international career. Later, he changed his mind and said he would end his career after the World Cup.
One of the most anticipated matches of the tournament was the quarterfinal between Brazil and France. The rematch of the 1998 final was taking place at an earlier stage this time. Everyone considered Brazil the favorite. Big expectations were from Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.
But we saw a completely different picture on the field. Zidane seemed to be the complete master of the game. He performed like a conductor controlling the game for 90 minutes. None of Brazil's plans worked, and Ronaldo and Ronaldinho seemed absent from the game.
The fate of the game was decided by Henry's goal, and France won. While everyone expected revenge, Zidane had disappointed Brazil again.
In the semifinal, France defeated Figo's Portugal and the team of young Cristiano Ronaldo to advance to the final. In the final, they faced Italy, who had defeated host Germany in the semifinal.
Italian football has always been known for its defensive system and tough game. Although they did not play attractive football in this tournament, the squad was very strong: Del Piero, Totti, Pirlo, and Buffon in goal.
The game started with France's advantage. Zidane converted a penalty kick in a "panenka" style. The ball hit the post and crossed the line. But did not touch the net. As if the ball became a goal out of respect for Zidane, and did not touch the net out of respect for Buffon.
On the field, Materazzi was playing rough to provoke Zidane. After equalizing the score, he became more aggressive in duels.
The game ended 1-1. In extra time, Materazzi insulted Zidane's family during a duel. Zidane lost his temper, headbutted him, and received a red card.
After that, France's game completely collapsed. The tournament's leader was sent off at the most critical moment of the final. In the penalty shootout, Italy became world champions.
Although 20 years have passed since this incident, it is still difficult to objectively assess Zidane's action. Yes, for a person, family is more important than anything. But considering the final match, the possibility of provocation, and the course of the game, this reaction is not easy to explain.
But in a parallel world, if that headbutt hadn't happened, Zidane could have ended his career as a world champion. He would have won the Ballon d'Or and had a majestic ending worthy of him.
But he chose a different ending. A iconic and unexpected ending that will remain in history...
