Palermo
Salvatore ‘Toto’ Schillaci, the legendary Italian striker and top scorer of the 1990 FIFA World Cup, has died at 59. Schillaci had been battling colon cancer, diagnosed in 2022, and was recently hospitalized in Palermo for heart-related issues.
Schillaci, who made a significant impact with Juventus, was celebrated for his passion and performance. Juventus praised him for his electrifying presence, both in the 1990 World Cup and during his time with the club. They noted his impressive 15 goals in the league and 21 goals across other competitions in his first season, which earned him a spot in the Italian World Cup squad.
During the 1990 World Cup, Schillaci scored crucial goals, including strikes against Austria and the USA, and later against Uruguay and Ireland. His efforts helped Italy reach the semi-finals and secure a third-place finish, where he scored against England. Schillaci’s six goals made him the tournament’s top scorer and earned him the Golden Boot.
Post-World Cup, Schillaci continued his career with Juventus until 1992, scoring 36 goals in 132 appearances. His death has deeply saddened Italy, with tributes pouring in from across the sports world. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and FIGC President Gabriele Gravina hailed his contributions to football and his enduring legacy. Serie A President Lorenzo Casini also highlighted Schillaci’s inspirational rise in the sport.
