Wednesday, May 29, 2002
Wednesday, May 29, 2002 |
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Football
Whoosh! What a goal! The ball entered the cage like a laser-guided missile, a shot of breathtaking quality from an awesome player. That was the astonishing strike from France and Real Madrid's Zinedine Zidane, that sunk Bayer Laverkusen in this year's Champions League final, a left-footed 25-yarder that had only one destination, the goal of a genius for its sheer anticipation, balance, timing and precision. Coming from Zidane it was hardly surprising. He has to be the most complete player of our times. An artist and a footballer, someone who can so dramatically alter the course of matches, like at Glasgow, the other day. The 30-year-old Zidane will be the key figure when France defends the World Cup. Zidane, the hunter, is bound to be hunted, given that exceptional, attacking players have always been `marked men.' Marked, he might be, but Zidane, once he recovers from the leg muscle injury that might keep him out of the first two matches, will be gunning for more glory in the World Cup. He will also be conjuring chances out of nowhere for his men. France, indeed, has a vibrant midfield, with Zidane its brightest star. He is sure to be pulling the strings with those delicate yet dangerous passes that can so easily find a way through the defence. Such is Zidane's strength on the ball that the defenders often have a torrid time trying to prevent him from making inroads, and such is his versatility that he can both fly down the wings and tear down the middle. And such is his big match temperament that he invariably delivers when it matters. The occasion was certainly huge when France took on Brazil in the final of the '98 World Cup at Stade de France. The situation that only stoked the combative streak in Zidane. He twice soared over the defenders to knock the ball in, searing headers that shut Brazil out. France ended the first half with a 2-0 lead and there was only one way the final was heading. Zidane, who was in the eye of a storm during the league phase for a petulant foul that earned him a red card, was now the toast of France. These match-winners, they are a separate breed! In Euro 2000 as well, Zidane's was a towering presence in the midfield for France, and although he did not strike with regularity, his vision set up goals for the others. He is the heart and soul of the French side. `Zizou' is an expert in dead ball situations as well, and such is his versatility, that it is extremely difficult to keep him out of a game. He can whip up magic, anytime, anywhere. Son of Algerian immigrants, recognition has not come easily for Zidane, who had to fight several prejudices early in his career. The hurdles along the serpentine path only strengthened his resolve. Today, he is probably the world's most celebrated footballer. A superstar for whom Real Madrid shelled out nearly $ 50 million for a five-year contract. He is precious, he's special, he's Zidane. He shoots to kill! — S. Dinakar
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