Platini: Zidane no match for Maradona

Zidane's greatness has been questioned

France's Zinedine Zidane is preparing for the European Championship final but his heroics in the tournament have been brought down to earth following comments from compatriate Michel Platini.

Platini, who captained the French side to success at Euro 84, has said that Zidane is a great player, but is no match for the likes of Argentinian legend Diego Maradona.

Speaking ahead of the Uefa executive committee meeting, Platini said that Zidane was the only member of the 1998 World Cup winning side, who had improved since then.

"The others haven't. They are getting the benefits of Zizou's aura," said Platini.

"Zidane does some extraordinary things, it's true. But you have to put everything in context. What Zidane does with a ball, Maradona could do with an orange," he added.

What Zidane does with a ball, Maradona could do with an orange

Michel Platini

Having knocked out co-hosts Holland in the semi-final, Italy now face France in the final on Sunday.

Platini said that the final would be spectacular provided there was an early goal in the game.

"If that isn't the case, I don't think it will be good to watch.

"Finals are rarely exciting. But in any case it's a good match-up with a French team we expected to reach the final and an Italian team we didn't."

Platini believes France will win 2-1, with the winner coming from a golden goal in extra-time.