Former French captain Zinedine Zidane went down in history in 2006 for one of the biggest world cup controversies the sport had ever known. 19 minutes into the extra time of the final against Italy, he head-butted Marco Materazzi of Italy for allegedly hurling insults. Seemingly out of nowhere, Zidane launched himself at the Italian player, and the force of the head-butt knocked him to the ground. France were then forced to play the remaining ten minutes of the extra time without the man who had led them to the 1998 World Cup victory. After extra time failed to produce a winning goal, Italy became the world champions through a penalty shoot out. Zidane earned himself a red card, marking the end of an incredible international career and despite initial vitriol, on his return to France he was welcomed as a hero. Materazzi admitted to the insults (which were in relation to Zidanes sister), and French media reported the mood of the nationwas one of affection, and forgiveness- with tributes led by Jacques Chirac himself.
