The FIFA World Cup is the pinnacle of global football, where the finest teams battle for glory every four years. Throughout its rich history, the tournament has seen thrilling moments, controversial calls, and dramatic turns of events. One of the most intriguing questions for football enthusiasts is: Which country has ever won a World Cup final match with a red card?
In football, a red card means a player is sent off the field, leaving their team a man down. Winning a World Cup final under such circumstances is no easy feat, as playing with fewer players against a strong opponent often puts a team at a severe disadvantage. Yet, one nation has managed to achieve this rare and remarkable feat.
In this article, we will delve into the story of that historic match, the key moments that shaped the game, and the incredible resilience displayed by the winning team. We will also explore other notable instances of red cards in World Cup history and how they have influenced the outcomes of matches.
Which Country Has Ever Won a World Cup Final Match With a Red Card?
The only country to ever win a World Cup final after receiving a red card is Italy. This iconic moment occurred during the 2006 FIFA World Cup final held in Berlin, Germany, on July 9, 2006. Italy defeated France in a nail-biting match that ended with a penalty shootout victory.
While the red card in question did not involve an Italian player, the match is particularly famous for the sending-off of Zinedine Zidane, France’s captain and key playmaker. Zidane’s red card left France with a significant handicap during extra time, ultimately contributing to Italy’s triumph in one of the most dramatic finals in World Cup history.
Let us take a closer look at this unforgettable game, the circumstances surrounding the red card, and how Italy went on to win their fourth World Cup title.
2006 FIFA World Cup Final: A Historic Encounter
The Build-Up to the Final
The 2006 FIFA World Cup final featured two footballing powerhouses: Italy and France. Both teams had shown immense quality throughout the tournament and reached the final after overcoming challenging opponents.
- Italy’s Road to the Final: Italy showcased an impenetrable defense, conceding only two goals in the tournament—one being an own goal and the other a penalty. With players like Fabio Cannavaro, Gianluigi Buffon, and Andrea Pirlo, the Azzurri entered the final as a defensively strong and tactically disciplined unit.
- France’s Road to the Final: France, led by Zinedine Zidane, had displayed exceptional midfield control and attacking prowess. Zidane, in what was his final international tournament, was in sensational form, leading his team to victories over Spain, Brazil, and Portugal in the knockout stages.
The final promised to be a classic showdown between Italy’s defensive resilience and France’s creative midfield brilliance.
Key Moments of the Match
The 2006 World Cup final kicked off in front of a packed Olympiastadion in Berlin, with millions watching around the globe. The match had its fair share of twists, controversies, and unforgettable moments.
- Early Drama – Zidane’s Penalty
France took an early lead in the 7th minute after Italy conceded a penalty. Zinedine Zidane coolly converted the spot-kick with a cheeky Panenka, a chip shot that left Italy’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon rooted to the spot. - Materazzi’s Equalizer
Italy responded quickly, equalizing in the 19th minute through a header by Marco Materazzi. The towering Italian defender rose above the French defense to meet Andrea Pirlo’s corner kick, leveling the score at 1-1. - A Battle of Wits and Nerves
As the game progressed, both teams had chances to win, but neither could find the decisive goal. Buffon made a crucial save from a Zidane header, while Italy’s attack was stifled by France’s solid defense. The match headed into extra time after a tense 90 minutes.
The Red Card That Changed Everything
The defining moment of the 2006 World Cup final came in the 110th minute of extra time. Zinedine Zidane, the French captain and football legend, was sent off after a moment of madness.
- The Incident: Zidane, frustrated after an exchange of words with Marco Materazzi, headbutted the Italian defender in the chest. The incident was captured on camera and reviewed by the referee, who showed Zidane a straight red card.
- The Impact: Zidane’s dismissal left France with only 10 players on the pitch for the final 10 minutes of extra time. It also meant that France lost their most influential player during the crucial final moments.
The red card marked a dramatic end to Zidane’s illustrious career, as the 2006 World Cup final was his last professional match.
Penalty Shootout: Italy’s Moment of Glory
With the score still tied at 1-1 after extra time, the match was decided by a penalty shootout. Italy held their nerve to claim victory, scoring all five of their penalties.
- Italy’s Penalty Takers: Andrea Pirlo, Marco Materazzi, Daniele De Rossi, Alessandro Del Piero, and Fabio Grosso all converted their spot-kicks.
- France’s Miss: France’s David Trezeguet struck the crossbar with his penalty, which proved decisive in Italy’s 5-3 shootout win.
Italy’s triumph was a testament to their mental strength, discipline, and composure under pressure. The Azzurri lifted their fourth World Cup trophy, and Fabio Cannavaro, the Italian captain, held the coveted prize aloft.
The Aftermath: Reflections on Zidane’s Red Card
Zinedine Zidane’s red card remains one of the most talked-about moments in World Cup history. While the incident overshadowed his otherwise stellar performance throughout the tournament, it also highlighted the intense emotions involved in high-stakes matches.
For Italy, the victory cemented their status as one of the greatest footballing nations, while France was left to reflect on what could have been.
Other Notable Red Cards in World Cup History
While Zidane’s red card in the 2006 final is the most famous, there have been other instances where red cards have influenced World Cup matches. Here are a few notable examples:
- Diego Maradona (1982 World Cup)
In a match against Brazil, Argentine legend Diego Maradona was shown a red card for a retaliatory foul, marking a premature end to his tournament. - David Beckham (1998 World Cup)
England’s David Beckham received a red card against Argentina for kicking Diego Simeone. England went on to lose the match in a penalty shootout. - Luis Suárez (2010 World Cup)
Uruguay’s Luis Suárez was sent off for a deliberate handball on the goal line against Ghana. While Ghana missed the resulting penalty, Uruguay won the match in a shootout. - Wayne Rooney (2006 World Cup)
England’s Wayne Rooney was sent off for a stamp on Portugal’s Ricardo Carvalho, a moment that contributed to England’s elimination.
Red cards often serve as turning points in World Cup matches, testing a team’s resolve and discipline.
How Rare Is Winning a Match With a Red Card?
Winning a match after receiving a red card, especially in a World Cup final, is incredibly rare. Playing with 10 men requires immense defensive organization, tactical adaptability, and mental strength. Italy’s 2006 triumph stands out because it occurred in the most high-pressure game imaginable: the World Cup final.
Conclusion: A Historic Feat for Italy
So, which country has ever won a World Cup final match with a red card? While no team has won a final after receiving a red card themselves, the 2006 FIFA World Cup final is remembered for Zinedine Zidane’s infamous red card and Italy’s incredible victory.
Italy’s triumph in 2006 remains one of the most iconic moments in football history. It showcased their tactical discipline, mental resilience, and ability to rise above adversity to claim the ultimate prize.
For football fans, the 2006 final is a reminder of the unpredictable and dramatic nature of the World Cup—a tournament where legends are made, moments are immortalized, and history is written.
