FLASH
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Italian goalkeeper legend Gianluigi Buffon has brought back to mind the 2006 World Cup final, one of the most discussed matches in football history, where Italy triumphed over France and was declared world champion.
In an interview with "The Guardian", following the publication of his book "Saved", Buffon reflected on the key moments of that night, offering details and personal reflections on the decisive episodes of the final.
Buffon recalls the spectacular save against Zinedine Zidane's header in extra time, one of the most important moments of the match.
" When he kicked the ball, he did it with incredible force, almost as if he had kicked it with his foot. He was very fast and he was convinced he was going to score. He was disappointed that I stopped him, but as the great champion that he is, I think he appreciated my save ."
The former Italian goalkeeper also reveals his role in the moment that led to Zidane's dismissal, after headbutting Marco Materazzi.
" I was about 15 meters away and I heard the kick. If he had hit someone else, it could have knocked him unconscious. The winger didn't see it, I was the only one. I ran towards the referee... Materazzi was on the ground, Zidane motionless and the game stopped ."
Buffon also accepts his responsibility in this situation:
" It was also my fault ..."
Today, in his leadership role, the former Italy captain expresses concern about the current state of the national team, which has failed to qualify for three consecutive World Cups.
" It's very painful. We need to understand the reasons and change, otherwise this problem will continue ."
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