Cannavaro beats Henry to Ballon D'Or

Cannavaro: immaculate World Cup performance brought his reward
14 April 2012

Arsenal's Thierry Henry has missed out on the European Footballer of the Year award as Italy's World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro took the prestigious Ballon D'Or - awarded by France Football magazine - ahead of countryman and Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.

More here:

• Wenger: We can win without Henry

Henry was third with last year's winner Ronaldinho, the Barcelona and Brazil playmaker, fourth.

Former Juventus man Cannavaro, the first Italian to win the award since Roberto Baggio 13 years ago, said: "My season at Juventus was just outstanding. I played 37 matches and scored four goals, all decisive.

"It is late recognition for our World Cup victory. It is thanks to my Italy team-mates that I have been able to show my qualities on the pitch. I want to thank my Juve team-mates too.

"I would like to show the trophy to Naples as it is a very special city, where I grew up. I used to play football in the streets of Naples.

"I would love to show it to the kids who are in difficulty over there."

The award is normally given to forwards or midfielders, making the centre-back's achievement in polling 173 votes from European football journalists to win the prize, even more notable.

The 33-year-old had an impeccable World Cup as he led Italy to glory in Germany, not collecting a single booking as the Azzurri conceded just two goals in seven matches.

His tussle with Henry in the final was particularly memorable and, on the night of his 100th cap, Cannavaro came out on top as Italy won 5-3 on penalties when the game ended 1-1 after extra time.

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