Totò Schillaci ‘Azzurro per Sempre’! Before the match against Belgium, a tribute was paid to the hero of Italia '90
In the pre-match ceremony, the FIGC wanted to honour one of Italy's most beloved players three weeks after his passing. At the Stadio Olimpico, he became the symbol of the ‘Notti Magiche’ 34 years agoThursday, October 10, 2024
His story began in this stadium on June 9, 34 years ago, during the 79th minute of Italy vs. Austria, Italy's opening match at Italia '90. Totò Schillaci had been on the pitch for just four minutes, replacing Andrea Carnevale, when he realised his moment had come following a cross from another unforgettable Azzurri, Gianluca Vialli. He scored with a header under the crossbar, sending the ball into the net. The Olimpico erupted in a roar as he ran wildly with his arms raised to the sky, his wide-eyed expression captivating millions of Italians at home. This would be just the first of six goals that would earn him the title of top scorer at the World Cup.
Unfortunately, the fairy tale would not have a happy ending. Argentina, with Diego Armando Maradona and Claudio Caniggia ended the dream when the final seemed all but certain. Instead, it was the penalties that halted Italy's run, despite Schillaci's inevitable goal in the semi-final played at the San Paolo in Naples.
In the collective imagination, he will always remain the hero of those ‘Notti Magiche’ sung by Gianna Nannini and Edoardo Bennato. And tonight, three weeks after his untimely passing, the FIGC paid him a fitting tribute. Before the kick-off of Italy vs. Belgium, the stadium lights dimmed, and the torches of the 40,000 fans at the Olimpico lit up as the big screen displayed the goals and celebrations that made him famous. Illuminating the centre of the pitch, in a truly evocative atmosphere, was the inscription ‘19, Schillaci.’ Goodbye Totò, Azzurro per Sempre!
