Luigi Riva, Italy’s all-time leading goalscorer and former Cagliari forward, has died at 79, following a reported heart attack.
Known as the ‘Roar of Thunder,’ Riva notched 35 goals in 42 appearances for the Azzurri, contributing to their 1968 European Championship victory and reaching the World Cup final in 1970.
His impact extended to Cagliari, where he played a pivotal role in securing their lone Serie A title in 1970.
Cagliari expressed their condolences, stating, “Forever GIGI RIVA.”
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President, Gabriele Gravina, hailed Riva as a national hero, and plans are in place for nationwide pre-match tributes throughout the week.
The Italian Super Cup final in Riyadh observed a minute’s silence in his honor.
Despite facing injuries, including a broken leg in 1970, Riva’s legacy endures, with almost his entire club career spent at Cagliari, where he topped Serie A charts three times and netted 207 goals, earning him the runner-up spot for the 1969 Ballon d’Or.