Salvatore ‘Toto’ Schillaci, the beloved Italian striker and top scorer at the 1990 World Cup, passed away at 59. Schillaci’s remarkable six-goal haul earned him the Golden Boot and propelled him to national hero status despite Italy’s semi-final exit.
Juventus, one of Schillaci’s former clubs, expressed their love and admiration for the striker: “We immediately fell in love with Toto. His desire, his story, and his being so wonderfully passionate showed in every game he played. We at Juve were lucky enough to get excited about him before – in that incredible summer of 1990 – the whole of Italy did, captivated by those wonderfully energetic celebrations of his.”
Schillaci’s captivating performance in the 1990 World Cup included crucial goals against Austria, Czechoslovakia, Uruguay, the Republic of Ireland, and England, solidifying his place in Italian football lore.
Tributes poured in from across the football world. Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni hailed Schillaci as “a football icon… The striker from the magic nights of Italia ’90 with our national team. Thanks for the emotions you gave us, for having made us dream, celebrate, embrace and wave our national flag.”
Serie A president Lorenzo Casini described Schillaci as “a champion who lit up the magical nights of the 1990 World Cup in Italy,” highlighting his inspiring journey.
Former teammate Roberto Baggio fondly remembered their shared experiences: “The magic nights of Italia ’90 we experienced together will always remain imprinted in my heart. Brothers of Italy forever.”
The president of the Italian Football Federation, Gabriele Gravina, praised Schillaci’s passion and indomitable spirit, stating: “Toto was a great footballer, a tenacious symbol of will and redemption. He could thrill the Azzurri fans because his football was full of passion, and precisely this indomitable spirit made him appreciated by everyone and will make him immortal.”
Schillaci’s legacy extends beyond his World Cup heroics. He was a pioneer, becoming the first Italian player to play in Japan’s J-League. His impact on Italian football and his captivating performances on the world stage will forever be remembered.
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