Cesar Luis Menotti has died.

[Calderwoodloyal]

It is one lasting memory of Argentina the Mothers of Plaza Mayor for me, came across them on my first day there. Just ordered AWDF, been meaning to read it for years, will probably end up reading that one as well - interesting topic I know little about.

I’ve just ordered the other one. AWDF is a fantastic read. It’s Argentinian history basically acted out around and on a football park. Then to go to BA you get to appreciate that they really do live, eat and breathe the game. Admit I may have read repeatedly the part regarding Racing (true Lions of 67) facing the upmost provocation in the World Club Championship …… true version as far as I’m concerned Getting to see Racing, albeit at Lanus and not at home, and then Boca and Argentina at the Bombonera has me still pinching myself!

 

[Robert Mckie]

Argentina's World Cup-winning coach Cesar Luis Menotti has died aged 85.

Menotti led his country to victory on home soil in the 1978 tournament, beating the Netherlands 3-1 after extra time thanks to two goals from player of the tournament Mario Kempes.

"The Argentine Football Association regrets to report with great sadness the death of Cesar Luis Menotti, former world champion coach of Argentina," said the AFA in a statement.

As a player, Menotti, a striker, played alongside Pele for Brazilian side Santos and won 11 international caps.

He then embarked on a coaching career which lasted 37 years including winning two trophies in a two-season spell with Barcelona and spells in Italy, Mexico, Uruguay and Argentina.

He took over the Argentina role in 1974 but there was controversy around the 1978 win after he opted not to include a 17-year-old Diego Maradona in the squad despite giving him his international debut the previous year.

But the following year, with Maradona in the squad, Menotti led Argentina to the Under-20 World Cup, beating the Soviet Union 3-1 in the final.

His reign ended after the 1982 World Cup in Spain where Argentina were eliminated by Brazil 3-1 in the second round with Maradona sent off.

I could be wrong but remember young players playing keepe up ..I thought Maradona was one ..

 

[Falcon]

A brilliant world Cup, and Argentina were superb to watch

Mario Kempes played at Ibrox in a European tie not long after I'm sure (Valencia?)

I think Rainer Bonhoff was in the same team i was in the stand that day

 

[Texas ranger]

I think Rainer Bonhoff was in the same team i was in the stand that day

Bonhoff scored the opener. It was an excellent overall performance from Valencia. Some goals from both legs below.