Former referee Pierluigi Collina shares amusing memories from the 2002 World Cup final

Legendary Italian referee Pierluigi Collina recalled a funny story from the 2002 World Cup final in an interview with La Repubblica. Collina, who officiated the clash between Brazil and Germany, admitted that he was determined to keep a special souvenir from the match.

• Read also: "I want to make history at Real." Vinícius responds to transfer rumors about Saudi Arabia

"I blew the final whistle 13 or 14 seconds later than I should have, regardless of the result, just to make sure the ball ended up in my hands," Collina revealed.

After securing the prized match ball, the Italian never let go of it, ensuring no one could take it away. He humorously noted that in all the photos from the trophy ceremony, he was seen clutching the ball. Today, it remains on display in his gym.

In addition to the match ball, Collina also kept jerseys from that final, including those of Brazilian stars Ronaldo and Cafu, as well as Germany’s Dietmar Hamann.

As a reminder, Brazil won the 2002 World Cup final 2-0, with Ronaldo scoring both goals to secure his country’s fifth world title.