Italy’s 2006 World Cup Champions Look Back After Two Decades
Two decades have passed since Italy claimed its fourth World Cup title in Berlin, Germany. The anniversary has stirred memories among the team’s stars who shared their thoughts about that unforgettable victory.
The final against France was intense and evenly matched, ultimately decided by a penalty shootout. During extra time, France played with ten men after captain Zinedine Zidane was sent off in the 110th minute for headbutting Italy’s Marco Materazzi.
Fabio Grosso, who stood out throughout the tournament, scored the winning penalty that sealed Italy’s triumph. Remarkably, Italy conceded only two goals during the entire competition—an own goal and a penalty kick—while goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon did not allow any goals from open play.
Memories From the Squad
The players from that 2006 squad share a deep bond forged by their shared success. Each has become a cherished figure within Italian football for their roles in that historic win.
Gianluca Zambrotta described the victory as a life-defining moment. “It was a tremendous joy, obviously, and it’s something that I remember every day,” he said. “It’s something that will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
Marco Materazzi, who scored Italy’s equalizer in the first half, reflected fondly on the day from Berlin. “20 years later, I returned to Berlin. The stairs, the corner of my goal, the penalty spot, it’s all still there,” he wrote on Instagram. “The greatest day of my life. July 9, 2006. It feels like yesterday.”
Fabio Cannavaro, Italy’s captain at the time, shared a simple but heartfelt video tribute, while Andrea Pirlo posted, “So we don’t forget. 20 years ago [heart emoji].” Alessandro Del Piero added, “Finish what you started. Campioni del Mondo.”
Buffon's Tribute to His Teammates
Gianluigi Buffon expressed his gratitude and pride in an emotional Instagram post. “There are days that don’t belong only to those who lived them. They belong to an entire nation. July 9, 2006, is one of those days,” he wrote. “20 years later, that memory is just as powerful: the embrace of an extraordinary team, the joy of millions of Italians, the pride of wearing that shirt and writing a page of history together.”
Buffon admitted the national team has faced struggles recently, but emphasized his unwavering support. “Our love for the Azzurri never changes, and it never fades. It’s a bond that endures through time, through victories, disappointments, and fresh starts,” he added. “Thank you to my teammates, the staff, and all the Italians who dreamed with us. That night will forever remain one of the greatest chapters in our history. And it will continue to remind us what it means to represent Italy.”
