Salvatore “Toto” Schillaci, the Italian football icon best known for his incredible performance as the top scorer at the 1990 World Cup, has passed away at the age of 59. Schillaci died on Wednesday at Palermo’s “Civico” hospital after a battle with bowel cancer.
Schillaci’s unexpected rise to fame came during Italy’s home World Cup, where he captured the hearts of fans worldwide by scoring six goals and leading Italy to the semi-finals. His goal-scoring prowess earned him both the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball, making him the tournament’s top scorer and best player. His memorable performances included crucial goals and celebratory moments that became etched in Italian football history.
Juventus, one of the clubs Schillaci played for, paid tribute to the former striker with a heartfelt message on social media, simply stating “Ciao Toto” alongside an image of Schillaci in a Juventus shirt. Schillaci began his career at Messina in the early 1980s before making notable contributions to Juventus and Inter Milan. His best club season came just before the 1990 World Cup, where he scored 21 goals across all competitions, helping Juventus secure the UEFA Cup and the Italian Cup.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced that all matches played in Italy until the end of the upcoming weekend would observe a “minute of reflection” before kick-off in honor of Schillaci. FIGC chief Gabriele Gravina praised Schillaci’s impact on the sport, stating, “His goal celebrations, in which his face became the symbol of a collective joy, will remain forever part of Italian football heritage.”
Despite his prolific performance on the international stage, Schillaci’s club career saw more modest success. He was capped 16 times for Italy but scored only one additional goal for the national team after the 1990 World Cup. Four years later, he left Inter Milan to join Jubilo Iwata in Japan, where he concluded his playing career.
Schillaci’s legacy as a footballing hero endures, remembered for his remarkable ability to shine on the world stage and his contribution to Italy’s rich football history. As the football community reflects on his life and career, Schillaci’s influence on the game remains a cherished part of its heritage.
