Zidane, Materazzi Suspended

FIFA handed out suspensions and fines today for Zinedine Zidane and Marco Materazzi for the headbutting incident in the final game of teh 2006 World Cup. Materazzi was fined $4,000 and suspended 2 games, while Zidane received a $6,000 fine and a 3 game ban. Since Zidane has retired, he'll work with FIFA's humanitarian efforts performing community service with kids. It is still not clear what exactly was said, but best estimates put it at something about Zidane's momma, possibly his sister, and it wasn't racist. Materazzi fesses up to saying something about Momma Zidane, but denies saying anything about Sis. Zidane says his sister was mentioned. Both players agree that what was said wasn't racist. What I'd give to know what he said. It might even be worth the cracked sternum to know what Materazzi said.

After having given much thought to the matter, here's my position. Zidane knew the game was lost. His picture perfect header just a few minutes before was beautifully saved by Buffon. If that thing wasn't going in, nothing was, and that means penalties. It would come down to Buffon or Barthez. Say what you will about never giving up, playing till the horn, and whatnot, but sometimes you know deep down when things aren't meant to be. Frustrated about losing and after having put up with 18 years of comments about his religion, ethnicity, and family, Zidane probably just said "Fuck it. The next son of a bitch that messes with me is in for it. What are they gonna do, suspend me?" At least that's how it went in my head.