The 2006 FIFA World Cup produced moments of brilliance, controversy, and drama that continue to resonate in football history. Here are the tournament's most unforgettable instances.
The Headbutt - Final
No moment in World Cup history has been more analyzed than Zinedine Zidane's headbutt on Marco Materazzi in the 110th minute of the final. The French captain, provoked by words from the Italian defender, walked deliberately toward Materazzi and delivered a violent headbutt to his chest. The red card ended Zidane's career in the most controversial manner possible.
Argentina's 24-Pass Goal - Group Stage
Esteban Cambiasso's goal against Serbia and Montenegro required 24 consecutive passes, moving through every outfield Argentine player before finding the net. This "total football" moment showcased Argentina's extraordinary technical quality and remains one of the most beautiful team goals ever scored.
Opening Ceremony Spectacular
The tournament opened with a magnificent ceremony in Munich, featuring 2,500 performers and a giant football made of 24,000 participants. The technological and artistic display set the tone for a tournament of exceptional organization.
Ghana's Historic Qualification
Ghana became the only African nation to reach the knockout rounds, defeating the Czech Republic 2-0 and the USA 2-1. Their passionate fans, dancing in the stands, became one of the tournament's most joyful images.
Grosso's Semi-Final Winner
Fabio Grosso's curling left-foot strike in the 119th minute against Germany silenced 66,000 home fans in Dortmund. The Italian defender's celebration - sliding toward the corner flag - became iconic, as did Alessandro Del Piero's goal moments later.
Germany's Opening Night
The hosts began with a 4-2 victory over Costa Rica, with Philipp Lahm scoring the tournament's opening goal. The game set an attacking tone that Germany would maintain throughout, delighting home supporters.
Graham Poll's Three Yellow Cards
Graham Poll became infamous for showing Josip Simunic three yellow cards before finally issuing a red against Australia. The refereeing error became a symbol of the human element in football officiating.
Ronaldo's Record
Brazil's Ronaldo scored against Ghana and Japan to become the World Cup's all-time leading scorer (at the time), surpassing Gerd Muller's record of 14 goals.
The Battle of Nuremberg
Portugal's Round of 16 match against the Netherlands produced four red cards and 16 yellows in the tournament's most ill-tempered encounter.
These moments, ranging from sublime skill to shocking controversy, defined a World Cup that delivered drama at every turn.
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