Italian World Cup striker Schillaci dies aged 59

 

Italian World Cup striker Schillaci dies aged 59

**Italian World Cup Striker Totò Schillaci Dies Aged 59**

Salvatore "Totò" Schillaci, the hero of Italy's 1990 FIFA World Cup campaign, has died at the age of 59. Schillaci, who captured the hearts of football fans around the globe during Italy’s run to the semifinals, passed away after a brief illness, according to his family.

Schillaci became an international sensation during the 1990 World Cup, held on home soil in Italy. Though relatively unknown outside of Italy before the tournament, Schillaci’s electric performances saw him win the tournament’s Golden Boot, scoring six goals, including crucial strikes that led Italy to the semifinals. His iconic celebrations, marked by wide-eyed exuberance, became a symbol of Italy's campaign, though they eventually finished third.

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Born in Palermo in 1964, Schillaci started his professional career at Messina before moving to Juventus in 1989. It was at Juventus where his talent truly began to shine, earning him a call-up to the national team just before the 1990 World Cup. His explosive World Cup performances were the pinnacle of his international career, as he would only play a few more matches for Italy before fading from the international scene.

Following his time at Juventus, Schillaci had a brief spell with Inter Milan before eventually moving to Japan, where he became one of the first European stars to play in the J-League with Jubilo Iwata.

Schillaci's impact extended beyond the football pitch. His story of a relatively unknown player rising to global fame in a matter of weeks became a testament to the unpredictability and magic of the World Cup.

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Tributes have poured in from the football community, with former teammates and fans remembering him as a symbol of hope, passion, and excitement during a time of great anticipation for Italian football.

Italy mourns the passing of a national icon, whose legacy will forever be tied to that unforgettable summer of 1990.