Italy-France – R. Baggio: “It's heart-breaking to lose in three World Cup competitions on penalties”

Luciano Nizzola, President of the Italian Football Federation:

“So, we lost, that’s how it is. Our players were outstanding. They were focused and I have no criticism to make. I can’t fault them. They can go home to Italy with their heads held high.”

Luigi DI BIAGIO (14):

“I missed my penalty and I’m extremely disappointed. I don’t know what to say. I’m very sorry. It’s no consolation knowing that great players such as Michel PLATINI and ZICO also missed penalties in their day. I am all the more bitter about it because I have taken two or three penalties successfully this season. It’s really hard to accept.”

Gianluca PAGLIUCA (12):

“I tried hard to stop every penalty kick. I am very disappointed. I did stop the one that was badly taken. After that save I felt that the road was clear. Anyway it’s a lottery. I do know how Youri DJORKAEFF takes penalties but unfortunately he wasn’t chosen to take any.”

Roberto BAGGIO (18):

“It’s heart-breaking to lose in three World Cup competitions on penalties. We gave our all and fought until the last. I would like to congratulate our opponents who will go through to the next round. Regarding the chance I missed during extra time, I saw Fabien BARTHEZ (16) come out, make a move to put me off but I shot too high. Nobody should be blamed for the missed penalties. You need a lot of courage to take them. I’m clearly disappointed, even if the feeling of disappointment is less than it was four years ago in the USA in the World Cup final.”