Sports reporter extraordinaire's predictions for the World Cup final:


On merit/In reality: Germany and France
The two best teams. Will be a great match.


For emotional value: Italy and France
Italy hasn't won since 1982, but this will be Zidane's last game in professional soccer.


For relative hotness of players: Italy and Portugal
love love love. Oh, they're great soccer players too.




Franceso Totti (l) and Ricardo (r)