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Italian football legend Salvatore “Toto” Schillaci, top scorer at the 1990 World Cup, has passed away at the age of 59 following a battle with colon cancer. Schillaci captured global attention by winning the Golden Boot at the 1990 tournament, scoring six goals on home soil and earning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.
Schillaci, a striker known for his passionate and energetic celebrations, became a national hero during Italy’s run to the semi-finals in 1990. He played a pivotal role, scoring in knockout matches against Uruguay and the Republic of Ireland before netting Italy’s only goal in the semi-final against Argentina. Despite Italy’s eventual exit on penalties, Schillaci secured the Golden Boot with his sixth goal in the third-place play-off against England.
Juventus, one of Schillaci’s former clubs, paid tribute to him, stating, “We immediately fell in love with Toto. His desire, his story, his passion—these showed in every game he played.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni mourned the football icon, stating, “A man who has entered the hearts of Italians and sports fans around the world… Thanks for the emotions you gave us.”
Serie A president Lorenzo Casini called Schillaci “a champion who lit up the magical nights of the 1990 World Cup in Italy,” while Italian Football Federation president Gabriele Gravina remarked, “Toto was a great footballer… his indomitable spirit made him appreciated by everyone and will make him immortal.”
Schillaci’s career saw him play for Juventus, Inter Milan, and Messina, as well as becoming the first Italian to play in Japan’s J-League. He retired in 1999 with 16 caps and seven goals for Italy.
