Salvatore “Toto” Schillaci, the Italian football legend and 1990 World Cup hero, passed away at the age of 59 due to colon cancer on Wednesday, as confirmed by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
Schillaci rose to international fame during the 1990 FIFA World Cup held in Italy, where he scored six goals, leading the Azzurri to a third-place finish. His remarkable performance earned him both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball awards, securing his place in football history.
Beyond his achievements in Italy, Schillaci left a significant mark on Asian football during his time with Japanese club Jubilo Iwata. His move to Japan in the early 1990s marked a pioneering shift, contributing to the development and popularity of football in the region.
Born in 1964, Schillaci was reportedly diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022.
In honor of his contributions to football, the FIGC announced that all league matches from Wednesday to the weekend would observe a minute of silence before kick-off.
In a statement, his former club Juventus expressed their condolences: “We at Juve were fortunate to be inspired by him before, and in that incredible summer of 1990, all of Italy was captivated by his energetic celebrations. Goodbye, Toto. Thank you.” Schillaci’s illustrious career also saw him play for clubs including Messina, Inter Milan, and Jubilo Iwata.
Schillaci’s legacy extends beyond his home country, leaving an indelible impact on fans and the football community across Asia and the world. His contributions both on and off the pitch will be remembered for generations to come.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com