Italian football icon Salvatore “Toto” Schillaci, the top scorer at the 1990 World Cup, has passed away at the age of 59.
Schillaci, who became a national hero during the tournament held in Italy, netted six goals to claim the Golden Boot.
Although Italy was eliminated in the semi-finals, Schillaci’s remarkable performance earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.
Diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022, Schillaci had a brief yet impactful international career, scoring seven goals in 16 appearances for Italy.
After starting his club career at Messina, he went on to play for Italian giants Juventus and Inter Milan.
Juventus, which he joined in 1989, paid tribute to Schillaci, saying: “We immediately fell in love with Toto. His desire, his story, his passionate play—it showed in every game. We at Juve were fortunate to witness his greatness before the entire nation was captivated by his celebrations in that unforgettable summer of 1990.”
Schillaci’s World Cup campaign began with a goal as a substitute against Austria, followed by another impressive performance against the United States.
He earned a starting role alongside Roberto Baggio in the match against the Czech Republic, where he scored again. His legendary status was cemented with goals in Italy’s knockout victories over Uruguay and the Republic of Ireland.
Schillaci also scored in the semi-final against Argentina, though Italy was eliminated on penalties in Naples. He sealed his Golden Boot with a sixth goal in the third-place play-off against England.
Although Schillaci finished second to Germany’s Lothar Matthäus for the 1990 Ballon d’Or, he left a lasting legacy.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni honored him as “a football icon who entered the hearts of Italians and sports fans worldwide. The striker from the magic nights of Italia ’90—thank you for the emotions you gave us, for making us dream, celebrate, and wave our national flag.”
Serie A president Lorenzo Casini also praised Schillaci as “a champion who illuminated the magical nights of the 1990 World Cup in Italy” and a source of inspiration for young players.
Schillaci would score only one more goal for Italy and did not play in another major tournament. He made history as the first Italian to play in Japan’s J-League before retiring in 1999.
Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), said Schillaci’s “face was a symbol of shared joy and will forever remain a part of Italian football heritage.
Toto was a tenacious footballer, a symbol of passion and redemption. His indomitable spirit made him admired by all, ensuring he will live on in our memories.”
Schillaci’s former teammate Roberto Baggio expressed his heartfelt tribute, stating, “The magic nights of Italia ’90 we shared together will always be imprinted in my heart. Brothers of Italy forever.”
Source-BBC
