Happy World Cup, Italy! =)

Finishing Touches by Indian Sand Artist Sudarshan Patnaik

History had paved the way for Italy's win this morning. Appearing in the Final every 12 years, it was time for the Azzurri to clinch what they had lost to Brazil in USA 94, when then-national hero Roberto Baggio instantly became the nation's villain upon missing the crucial shot in a penalty shootout. Victory continued to elude Italy in Euro 2000 when they faced France in that Final.

It was deja vu again this morning. After ninety minutes of soccer theatrics - the threat of Henry's substitution in the opening minutes, Cannavaro's exasperated worry, Zidane's did-it-did-it-not-cross-the-line penalty, diving antics, Materazzi's splendid equaliser, Henry's less-than-admirable attempts at goal, Vieira's substitution, Del Piero's introduction and needless to say, the infamous head-on with Materazzi that led to Zidane's red card - extra time garnered little and the Azzurri were yet again embroiled in another penalty shootout in the Final.

All eyes were on Trezeguet who had to score. Fans worldwide would remember him as The One With The Golden Goal in Euro 2000 that defeated Italy in the Final. Score he did not and fans of Italy would surely be placated at this boomerang of events. As Trezeguet stared blankly, Grosso - with the most important kick of the tournament - deftly sent Italy into hysteria when the ball was slotted into the top right corner. At this juncture, one would recall the unfortunate fate of Escobar in USA 94 when he scored an own goal. Such is the nature of international soccer that transcends beyond men running after a ball. It'd be an understatement to note that Trezeguet and Zidane, in particular for a devastating end to his career, are the lambs for the foreboding media onslaught come this break of dawn. Being an absolutely huge fan of Cannavaro since his I-have-Totti's-hair-and-headband days, I was certainly pleased as punch when he lifted the Cup in victory.

Azzurri 1 - 1 Les Bleus (5 - 3 PSO)Happy World Cup, Italy!
You deserved it.
-BiG sMiLe-

Updated
Fifa World Cup 2006 will enter the history annals with a single burning question:
What provoked Zidane's vehement reaction?
Watch this video and be enlightened.