World Cup: FIFA to investigate Zidane’s case

World soccer's governing body said Tuesday the incident had been spotted by the fourth official without using a monitor, who then alerted referee Horacio Elizondo through their communications system.

Photo: World Cup: FIFA to investigate Zidane’s case

World Cup: FIFA to investigate Zidane’s case

"FIFA will open a disciplinary investigation into Zidane's conduct to enable it to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident as exactly as possible," FIFA said in a statement.

Zidane and Materazzi exchanged words after Italy broke up a French attack in extra-time of Sunday's final in Berlin. Seconds later, Zidane lowered his head and rammed Materazzi in the chest, knocking him to the ground.

Zidane was sent off, reducing France to 10 men. Italy won the game in a penalty shootout, the AP rports.

Referring to Zidane being voted the player of the tournament by journalists, FIFA said the ballot boxes remained open at the main media center in Berlin until midnight on Sunday. The game was over by then.

Materazzi admitted he insulted Zidane before the France captain head-butted him, but denied calling him a "terrorist."

The 32-year-old Inter Milan player did not elaborate exactly on what he said to Zidane.