HE DID IT all as a player and now Zinedine Zidane is trying his hand at management.
Zizou makes his bow as Real Madrid coach tonight at home to Deportivo La Coruna.
Before we see what he’s like patrolling the touchline, here’s a reminder of how jaw-droppingly good he was during his playing days.
1. Starring on his international debut in 1994
2-0 down against the Czech Republic, Zidane was sprung from the bench for his first French senior cap. He made his presence felt by hitting the net twice, including this screamer.
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2. Wreaking havoc on Ajax in 1997
Juventus may not have won the 1996-97 Champions League final but Zidane gave a virtuoso display in the semi-final against Ajax with his dazzling trickery resulting in this goal
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3. World Cup final headers in 1998
What better way to become a national hero than heading home a brace in the World Cup final played in your country’s capital city and pave the way for them to become world champions for the first time?
More international glory for France came in Euro 2000 and aside from netting the winner from the penalty spot in the semi-final against Portugal, Zidane was a menace throughout that match.
France were in trouble as they trailed England in their Euro 2004 opener. But despite time running out, Zidane was still capable of conjuring up a brace from set pieces.
Okay so it wasn’t his finest moment but let’s face it, it’s still not one that you’ll easily forget. The red mist descends on Zizou and Marco Materazzi bears the brunt.
8 of the most memorable moments from Zinedine Zidane's playing career
HE DID IT all as a player and now Zinedine Zidane is trying his hand at management.
Zizou makes his bow as Real Madrid coach tonight at home to Deportivo La Coruna.
Before we see what he’s like patrolling the touchline, here’s a reminder of how jaw-droppingly good he was during his playing days.
1. Starring on his international debut in 1994
2-0 down against the Czech Republic, Zidane was sprung from the bench for his first French senior cap. He made his presence felt by hitting the net twice, including this screamer.
2. Wreaking havoc on Ajax in 1997
Juventus may not have won the 1996-97 Champions League final but Zidane gave a virtuoso display in the semi-final against Ajax with his dazzling trickery resulting in this goal
3. World Cup final headers in 1998
What better way to become a national hero than heading home a brace in the World Cup final played in your country’s capital city and pave the way for them to become world champions for the first time?
4. Leading Portugal a merry dance in 2000
More international glory for France came in Euro 2000 and aside from netting the winner from the penalty spot in the semi-final against Portugal, Zidane was a menace throughout that match.
5. THAT wonder strike against Bayer Leverkusen in 2002
This Champions League final effort for Real Madrid needs little introduction.
6. Breaking English hearts in 2004
France were in trouble as they trailed England in their Euro 2004 opener. But despite time running out, Zidane was still capable of conjuring up a brace from set pieces.
7. A panenka in the 2006 World Cup final
Why score a straightforward penalty when you can nervelessly net one like this against Italy?
8. THAT World Cup final headbutt
Okay so it wasn’t his finest moment but let’s face it, it’s still not one that you’ll easily forget. The red mist descends on Zizou and Marco Materazzi bears the brunt.
What are your memories of Zinedine Zidane’s playing career? Let us know in the comments section below.
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Deportivo la Coruna La Coruña Primera Division Real Madrid Deportivo La Coruña Real Madrid Zinedine Zidane zizou