Italy (2006 World Cup Champions)

It was an exhilirating match to watch. Sadly, the world cup has gone and it will be another four more years before the next one. Italy are the 2006 World Cup Champions. The Italians have not won the World Cup since 1982. Their last win came amidst scandals hitting them. Even this year has been the same, with some Italian clubs being linked to match fixing scandals. It was a fitting end to an otherwise ordinary tournament. The match ended 1-1 with both sides scoring in the first half, Zidane with a penalty and Marco Materazzi scoring the equaliser for the Italians. Deep in the second half of extra time, a momentary lack of self control, resulted in Zidane headbutting Materazzi in the chest and being ejected from the game. It was a pity to see a legend like Zinedine Zidane bowing out of International Soccer in such dire circumstances. Italy then held their nerve during the penalty shootout to record victory. The Italians took the spot kicks first and both sides were able to convert their penalties. However when David Trezeguet stepped up, he beat the Buffon with a rasping shot, but the ball hit the bar and bounced back into play. Italy were leading 4-3 on penalties and up stepped Fabio Grosso. The moment the ball hit the net, the stadium and also the Italian players celebrated. Third place for this World Cup went to Germany who beat Portugal 3-1.

In other sporting news, Rafael Nadal was unable to beat Roger Federer at Wimbledon and Amelie Mauresmo outlasted Justin Henin Hardenne in the ladies finals.