Italy "win" FIFA World Cup

Yes it's true (unfortunately). Italy have been declared champions of the 2006 FIFA World Cup after defeating France 1-1 (5-3 on penalties). French player Zinedine Zidane was sent off with about 10 minutes left on the clock in the second half of extra time. After having his shirt pulled, Zidane (the head- butter) exchanged words with Materazzi (the headbuttee). I'm sure that Materazzi must have said something extremely offensive for Zidane to react the way he did. Zidane struck Materazzi in the chest with his bald head, and Materazzi fell to the floor clutching his sternum as though he had been shot.

Totalbet have Materazzi as a strong favourite to win the 2007 Oscar in the category of Best Performance by a Μαλακισμένο Ζώον. However, Materazzi's acting was only the latest in a string of great performances by the Italians in their World Cup campaign, which was filled with brilliant dramatic performances by players feigning injury. While Materazzi is receiving all the attention and numerous plaudits, other Italian players are also worthy of having their acting abilities recognised including: Grosso for his wonderful impersonation of a sniper victim vs Australia, Totti for falling whenever an opposing defender was in the same half, and Camoranesi for being the first player to dive in the team bus before it had arrived at the stadium.

Despite the Italian players' constant diving and unfair play throughout the tournament, they are champions. However, you have to wonder if they really feel that they deserved to win. Do they feel that they are worthy champions? It's an important question. Take Greece, for example. All Greek people were are proud of the Greek national team for winning Euro 2004. Along the way, the Greeks were rolemodels for everbody watching, in terms of teamwork, sportsmanship, and fairness. Each win was a clear win, leaving no doubt or stale taste in the mouths of those watching. In contrast, the Italian World Cup win was more like a silent fart - it started off slowly and quietly, but by the end it stunk - or similarly, the US presidential election of 2000 where the victory was handed to one of the two contenders.

Forza Italia!