Salvatore Schillaci, an iconic Italian who led the 1990 World Cup in scoring, passed away at the age of 59.
Known by his nickname “Toto,” Schillaci won the Golden Boot in the 1990 World Cup in his native country after scoring six goals.
Although Italy fell in the semifinals, Schillaci became a hero and received the Golden Ball for being the best player.
After starting his club career at Messina, he played for Italian powerhouses Juventus and Inter Milan, earning seven goals in 16 caps for his nation.
As a sub against Austria, Schillaci netted his first goal of the 1990 World Cup. He then made another appearance as a substitute against the United States, earning his first start against the Czech Republic.
As Italy’s campaign gained traction, Schillaci scored another goal while playing with Baggio up front.
Additional goals in the quarterfinal knockout stage matches against Uruguay and the Republic of Ireland solidified his image as a hero.
Italy lost on penalties in Naples despite leading 1-0 against Argentina in the semi-final; nonetheless, Schillaci won the Golden Boot with his sixth goal of the competition against England in the third-place play-off.
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