BBC Sport's chief football writer Phil McNulty looks back on the life of Toto Schillachi and the moments that made him an unlikely superstar.
Salvatore 'Toto' Schillaci, who has died aged 59, provided the defining images of Italia ‘90 as his wild-eyed, arms-outstretched goal celebration transformed a virtual unknown into a national hero and global superstar.
Schillaci for a few short weeks joined the ranks of the world’s most famous sporting figures as he provided some of the most memorable moments in a disappointing tournament that history has actually remembered more kindly than it should. Schillaci raced off towards the touchline, almost in disbelief, pumping his arms out wide and staring wide-eyed, lost in the ecstasy of celebration. He looked like he would not stop running until he was brought to a halt, swamped by elated Italy team-mates.Vicini resisted the temptation to start Schillaci, who came on as a substitute, in the narrow win over the USA but bowed to national demands to play the tough Sicilian alongside the great Roberto Baggio against the Czech Republic.
Italia ‘90 ended on a personal high as he scored a late penalty as the hosts beat England 2-1 to secure third place. He was the recipient of a generous gesture from Baggio, who stepped aside as penalty taker to give Schillaci the chance to end as the tournament’s top scorer ahead of Czech Republic striker Tomas Skuhravy.
West Germany won the World Cup in a miserable final against Argentina but mention Italia ‘90 – outside England at least – and the first name and image that springs to mind for many will be Schillaci, his memorable glorious release and the facial expression of an joyous goalscorer.
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