Farewell to Football Legends: Stars We Lost in 2024
In 2024, the football world bid farewell to several iconic figures whose contributions left an indelible mark on the sport.
As the year 2024 comes to a close, we remember the football legends who passed away, leaving behind rich legacies that have shaped the beautiful game.
Mário Zagallo
The Brazilian football icon, Mário Zagallo, passed away on January 5, 2024, at the age of 92. Zagallo was celebrated for his unparalleled World Cup successes, securing titles twice as a player (1958, 1962) and twice as a coach (1970, 1994).
Franz Beckenbauer
German football legend Franz Beckenbauer, known as 'Der Kaiser,' died on January 7, 2024, at the age of 78. Beckenbauer's illustrious career included European Championship victories and World Cup triumphs both as a player and a coach. In his honor, Bayern Munich retired his iconic number 5 jersey, and the German Super Cup was renamed after him.
Luigi 'Gigi' Riva
Italy's all-time leading scorer, Luigi Riva, passed away on January 22, 2024. Riva was instrumental in Italy's 1968 European Championship win and their runner-up finish in the 1970 World Cup.
Sven-Göran Eriksson
Renowned Swedish coach Sven-Göran Eriksson, who managed teams like Fiorentina, Roma, Manchester City, and the England national team, succumbed to cancer on August 26, 2024, at the age of 76.
Helmuth Duckadam
Romanian goalkeeper Helmuth Duckadam, famed for his heroics in the 1986 European Cup final where he saved four consecutive penalties against Barcelona, passed away in November 2024 at the age of 65.
Salvatore 'Toto' Schillaci
Italian forward Salvatore Schillaci, top scorer of the 1990 World Cup, died on September 18, 2024, at the age of 59. Schillaci's six goals were pivotal in securing Italy's third-place finish in the tournament.
The football community mourns the loss of these legends, whose contributions have profoundly impacted the sport and inspired generations of players and fans alike.
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