Deschamps Criticized Zidane‘s 1998 World Cup Red Card, Calling Act “Unforgivable”
PARIS – As speculation mounts over Zinedine Zidane perhaps succeeding Didier Deschamps as manager of the French national team, resurfaced comments reveal a starkly critical reaction from Deschamps to a pivotal moment in the 1998 World Cup: Zidane’s red card against Saudi Arabia. The incident nearly derailed France’s campaign, ultimately culminating in their historic victory.
During the round of 16 match, Zidane was ejected for a headbutt on Saudi captain Fuad Amin. Deschamps, then a teammate and captain of the French squad, reacted swiftly and bluntly. “Zinédine, this is unforgivable,” Deschamps stated promptly after the match. He acknowledged Zidane’s impulsive nature but warned, “He’s going to condemn us in two or three games, I think he’ll take them.” Despite the potential loss, Deschamps recognized Zidane’s importance, adding, “Knowing the importance zidane has in our game, it is an significant asset that we are losing.”
National team coach Aimé Jacquet also expressed his displeasure,having urged players,particularly Zidane,to control their nerves earlier that day. “When we commit a regrettable act, we must expect to pay dearly for it,” Jacquet said.
The criticism clearly stung Zidane,who publicly responded through the press,as reported by Le Monde.He described Deschamps’ comments as “worse then disappointment,” and dismissed Jacquet’s remarks wiht a curt, “He can think whatever he wants.” Initially, Zidane offered a questionable defense, claiming, “I involuntarily fell on the Saudi, so I was not at fault.”
However, two decades later, Zidane offered a more candid assessment.In the TF1 documentary “98, secrets of a victory,” he admitted, “No one is perfect… I wasn’t. I’m not proud of what I was able to do from time to time on the pitch. This gesture,when I crush the player,I am not proud. But we can’t change ourselves, it’s part of my life.”
France ultimately overcame the loss of Zidane, securing a golden goal victory against Paraguay and eventually winning the World Cup. The incident, however, remains a notable point of contention between two of French football’s most iconic figures.
