Italy set to take on France for World Cup title

Few teams faced more questions heading into the World Cup finals than Italy and France. The French were over the hill — they couldn't even score. The Italians were consumed by the biggest soccer scandal in the nation's history.

No teams have answered their doubters more emphatically. On Sunday in Berlin, the Italians play for their fourth world soccer championship and the French go for their second. Both teams have rich traditions, but neither entered the monthlong tournament a favorite.

Italy won the World Cup in 1934, 1938 and 1982. This time it has allowed only an own-goal in six games, and now its offense is rising to the same level. After beating Germany with two goals in the final minutes of extra time, Italy headed to its first final since losing to Brazil in 1994.

In the buildup to Germany 2006, France rarely impressed, barely escaping from their qualifying group. Veteran players such as Zinedine Zidane, Patrick Vieira and Fabien Barthez hinted at dissension toward coach Raymond Domenech.

Their 1-0 semifinal win over Portugal came with a bit of good fortune — a suspect rewarding of a penalty kick that Zidane converted. No matter: France will be in Berlin for its fifth World Cup meeting with Italy.

Italy won the first two World Cup matches with France, 3-1 in 1938 and 2-1 in 1978. France won 2-0 in 1986, then took a penalty-kick shootout 4-3 after a 0-0 tie in '98. Who has the edge this time?

Although France has yielded just two goals, Italy has the superior defense, led by Fabio Cannavaro, perhaps this World Cup's best player. But Zidane, a three-time world player of the year, has been masterful the last three games. If anyone can create space in the penalty area for his teammates, it's Zizou.

Barthez has made some outstanding saves, but he also has a penchant for bobbling the ball. Italy's Gianluigi Buffon, who has been questioned back home about illegal sports betting, has been impregnable.

If the stars decide the title, France has the edge. If it becomes an 11-man game, Italy is in better shape.