Former striker Leopoldo Jacinto Luque, who formed a net-breaking duo with Mario Kempes in the Argentina team that won the 1978 World Cup, died on Monday from coronavirus. He was 71 years old.
Luque was in intensive care at a private clinic in the province of Mendoza since the beginning of January due to respiratory complications as a result of the virus.
In a message posted on Twitter, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) expressed its condolences to the former soccer player’s family and loved ones.
While his former teammate Alberto Tarantini dismissed him with a heartfelt message on Instagram: “Rest in peace dear friend and partner … forever champion.”
Luque was born on May 3, 1949 in the province of Santa Fe.
His professional debut was at age 23 in Rosario Central in that province. After a stint in Unión, he arrived at River Plate in 1975 and debuted with a goal in a classic against Boca Juniors.
In the millionaire club he scored 84 goals and won five titles.
“Goodbye, World Champion” was River’s message.
His outstanding performances in the River Plate team led him to the national team that hosted the 1978 World Cup. With four goals, Luque was the second scorer in the team led by César Luis Menotti behind Kempes, the tournament’s top scorer with six.
During the World Cup, Luque suffered the death of his brother in a car accident while on his way to Buenos Aires to attend the game against France. The forward played and scored a goal without knowing the tragic news, of which he was informed after the first round match.
Luque retired in 1986 playing for Deportivo Mandiyú. He had a less successful coaching experience at second division clubs.
Since 2017 I have been working in River Plate’s talent recruitment area.
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