Zinedine Zidane is one of the greatest footballers of all time, having won numerous accolades and titles during his playing career. He is also widely regarded as one of the best managers in the game, having led Real Madrid to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, among other achievements.
In this article, we will take a look at five of Zidane's best performances, both as a player and as a manager.
1. FIFA World Cup 1998 Final
The 1998 FIFA World Cup final is widely regarded as one of Zidane's finest moments on the football field. Playing for the host nation France, Zidane scored two goals in the final against Brazil to help his team secure a 3-0 victory and their first ever World Cup title. Zidane's first goal was a well-placed header from a corner, while his second was a stunning left-footed strike from just outside the box. Zidane was named the Man of the Match for his outstanding performance, which cemented his status as one of the best midfielders in the world.
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2. UEFA Champions League Final 2002
Zidane's performance in the 2002 UEFA Champions League final between Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen is considered by many to be one of the greatest individual performances in the history of the competition. Zidane scored the winning goal with a stunning volley that has since become known as the "volley of the century." Throughout the match, Zidane showcased his incredible skill and vision, setting up numerous chances for his teammates and controlling the midfield with ease. Real Madrid went on to win the match 2-1, with Zidane's goal being a true moment of brilliance.
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3. UEFA Champions League Final 2017
As a manager, Zidane's finest hour came in the 2017 UEFA Champions League final between Real Madrid and Juventus. Zidane's side had already won the competition the previous year, but they faced a tough challenge in the form of an impressive Juventus team. However, Zidane's tactics and team selection proved to be spot on, as Real Madrid ran out 4-1 winners. Cristiano Ronaldo scored a brace, while Casemiro and Marco Asensio also got on the scoresheet. Zidane's side played with a level of intensity and fluidity that left Juventus struggling to keep up, and the victory cemented Zidane's status as one of the best managers in the game.
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4. La Liga Title 2017
Real Madrid's La Liga title win in 2017 was another highlight of Zidane's managerial career. After a slow start to the season, Zidane's side found their form and went on an incredible run of 17 consecutive victories. Zidane's tactics were spot on throughout the season, as he managed to get the best out of his star players and rotate his squad effectively. Cristiano Ronaldo was once again the talisman for Real Madrid, but Zidane's astute management and tactical nous were crucial to their success.
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5. UEFA Champions League Final 2018
Zidane's final major achievement as Real Madrid manager came in the 2018 UEFA Champions League final against Liverpool. Despite being the underdogs going into the match, Zidane's side produced a stunning performance to win 3-1. Gareth Bale scored two memorable goals, including a stunning overhead kick that will go down in history as one of the best ever scored in a Champions League final. Zidane's tactical acumen and man-management skills were once again on full display, as he masterminded another famous victory for Real Madrid.
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