With or without instant replay, the linesman was appropriately consulted upon protestations from the Italians, and the red card call was correct.

My impression is the incident started with Materazzi, right on Zidane's back, reaching around with his left arm and pinching Zidane's chest (probably his nipple) adding inappropriate words to the act. As Zidane moved forward with Materazzi following, words continued to be exchanged until Zidane snapped, turned, and butted. I am certain I will remember this act long after I have forgotten all other aspects of the game, including the scoring. I await further developments - revelations - in the press.

I agree with Patrick re the red card being appropriate, and not due to instant replay. I don't think that Matarazzi pinched Zindane, but after having ignored all Matarazzi's physical and verbal provocations, Zindane finally snapped. He has done this before in his career. Unfortunately, only in legends are our heroes like the CHevalier Bayard, "Sans peur et sans reproche."

That said, I would like to see more use of instant replays to cut down on the foul theatre that seems to be going on.