Yes, perhaps I was hasty in claiming that Zidane single-handedly cost the French the Cup, but I believe that his ejection placed additional pressure on the players taking the penalties. If he kept his head we may still be watching the final, since it was obvious that neither keeper was capable of stopping a penalty.
I too believe that had Zidane remained for the shootouts, it would have made a huge difference in morale. More pressure on Italy would have probably made them blown a shot or two. Buffon was always launching himself in the opposite direction. I was honestly surprised that Italy did win it. I can understand the anger from hearing slurs. Zidane should have just told him to "Va Fa#$ulo".
But I disagree with the French commentator saying it was a "little win". France was a good hard team and Italy did keep up with them. You may counter that they more dirty. Well, I felt for Zidane when his shoulder was hurt. But I don't think that one was on purpose. As for the rest, the referees weren't letting Italy get away with murder. They got called on alot their dirty fouls. (The penalty kick Zidane got for example). The refs also knew when the Italians were totally faking....like that rather pathetic dive taken in the corner by DelPiero (or Piero?) near the end of extra time. Come onnnnnnnnn...remember there are cameras?
All in all, both teams played as well as they could. More truthfully, I'm just happy that it wasn't Brazil that got the cup this time.