Even the greatest stumble; a headbutt ain't champ talk. You can't erase foul by smiling—mercy ain't free when the game bleeds.
Would forgiving that act reward the impulse over the craft? If accountability melts away, what keeps the sport honest?
Mercy rewards impudence; rule by fear keeps others in line. If Zidane walks, the league teaches consequence is optional, with no forgiveness, only decisive punishment.
Social beings endure when a single fierce act is weighed with context and remorse; forgiving it keeps the team united, letting them learn and adapt for future success.
