RIP. Colombian football legend passes away
Colombian football is mourning the loss of one of its most memorable goalscorers.
Details: Former Colombia international Eduardo Emilio Vilarete, affectionately known as El Loco, passed away on October 9 at the age of 73. His daughter, Angélica Vilarete, confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media. The former striker had been battling serious health complications after being diagnosed with a sarcoma in his left leg.
Born in Santa Marta on June 20, 1953, Vilarete established himself as one of Colombia's most recognizable forwards during the 1970s and 1980s. Throughout his professional career, he represented Atlético Bucaramanga, Unión Magdalena, Atlético Nacional, Deportivo Pereira and Deportes Tolima.
The legendary striker enjoyed some of his greatest success with Atlético Nacional, winning two Colombian league titles in 1976 and 1981. He also represented the Colombia national team, participating in the 1979 Copa América and World Cup qualifying campaigns.
According to his family, the funeral ceremonies will take place in Ibagué, followed by a tribute in Santa Marta, the city where the footballer was born. His passing marks the loss of a celebrated figure in Colombian football history.
It's worth noting that Vilarete scored more than 200 goals during his professional career. In 1975, he became the highest-scoring Colombian player in the national championship, finding the net 18 times.
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Steven Perez
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