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Italy’s World Cup icon ‘Totò’ has passed away.
The football world is mourning the loss of Totò Schillaci, the iconic striker who led Italy to a memorable third-place finish at the 1990 FIFA World Cup.
The great Schillaci, who was hospitalized in Palermo last week and diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022, passed away at the age of 59.
His health had recently deteriorated, leading to treatment aimed at stabilizing his heartbeat.
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Schillaci's remarkable journey in football began at Messina and saw him make his mark at top clubs like Juventus and Inter Milan.
However, it was during the 1990 World Cup held in Italy that he achieved global stardom, finishing as the tournament's top scorer with six goals.
His memorable strikes included decisive winners against Austria, the Republic of Ireland, and England, capturing the hearts of fans across the nation.
Schillaci famously scored the goal that put Italy ahead in the semi-final against Argentina, a match that ultimately went to penalties.
Schillaci's ability to rise to the occasion during high-pressure moments made him a beloved figure in Italian football history.
Totò Schillaci: Tributes pour In from clubs and fans
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Following the news of his passing, both Juventus and Inter Milan released heartfelt tributes.
Juventus expressed their deep admiration for Schillaci, stating, "We immediately fell in love with Totò. With his desire, his story, his passion."
Inter Milan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how he made "an entire nation dream during the Magic Nights of Italia 90."
Schillaci’s legacy lives on not only through his unforgettable goals but also in the hearts of fans who celebrated his extraordinary talent.
During his club career, he played for Messina (1982–1989), Juventus (1989–1992), Internazionale (1992–1994) and Júbilo Iwata (1994–1997).
At the international level, Schillaci was the surprise star of the 1990 FIFA World Cup, as he helped Italy to a third-place finish on home soil.
Coming on as substitute in Italy's first game, Schillaci went on to score six goals throughout the World Cup, claiming the Golden Boot as the leading goalscorer, and received the Golden Ball as player of the tournament ahead of Lothar Matthäus and Diego Maradona, who came second and third respectively.
That year he also placed second in the 1990 Ballon d'Or, behind Matthäus.
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