India, June 24 -- When Italy lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in Berlin in 2006, few could have imagined that the four-time world champions would disappear from football's biggest stage for more than a decade. Yet after missing the 2018, 2022 and now 2026 FIFA World Cups, many fans have once again revived one of football's most famous myths, the so-called "Zidane Curse."

The Origin of the 'Zidane Curse'

The story dates back to the 2006 FIFA World Cup Final between Italy and France. During extra time, French captain Zinedine Zidane headbutted Italian defender Marco Materazzi following a heated exchange. Zidane received a red card in the final match of his legendary career, whereas Italy went on to lift the World Cup through penalties.

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