Argentine football, in mourning: at the age of 70, he died Hugo Villaverdelegend of Independent. The defender is considered one of the best centre-backs throughout history of the institution and played 423 games with the team’s shirt. King of Cups. It was precisely El Rojo who was in charge of reporting the sad news on social networks.
Born on January 27, 1954 in city of Santa Fethe outstanding central marker began his career in Colóndebuting in 1973. In 1976, he was transferred to Independiente, where he cemented his place as one of the best defenders in the country. and marked the era sharing the rear with Enzo Trosero as one of the best duos on the continent.
In his stage in Independentthe defender left an indelible mark. He played 423 games and won four national championships, achieved in 1977, 1978, 1983 and 1989. In addition, he was the protagonist in obtaining the 1976 Inter-American Cupwhere he scored the only goal of his career. That much, crucial for the Rojooccurred on August 26, 1976 during the first leg against Atlético Español de Méxicoheld at the Caracas Olympic stadiumand it meant the second draw for his team.
He also added the 1984 Copa Libertadores and the Intercontinental Cup of the same year to his record.by defeating Liverpool in Japanconsolidating his legacy as an icon of the King of Cups. After 15 years defending the colors of Independentretired from professional football in 1989.
“With deep pain we say goodbye to Hugo Villaverde, glory of the Club Atlético Independiente, symbol of an era. Idol of entire generations and exquisite central marker. He won seven titles at the institution, but the most important thing is that he left an enormous legacy as a footballer and as a person to all those who were lucky enough to know him. We send a big hug to your family and friends. We love you, Hugo, always in the heart of the family of the King of Cups”, was the statement-tribute that the club published on its networks.
With the selection argentinahis performance did not reach the brilliance shown in his club career. He debuted against Bulgaria and participated in a European tour in 1979, sharing the defensive rear with Daniel Passarella. In a commemorative match, for the 75th anniversary of FIFA, against the Netherlands, which ended 0-0, he converted a penalty in the definition after 90 minutes.
In another of the notable matches, he was key during the 2-2 draw against Italy and, against Ireland, he formed a central duo with his eternal teammate Enzo Trossero. However, in Hampden Parkin the match where Diego Maradona He scored his first goal with the national team, suffered a serious injury, which kept him off the field for several months. His international experience culminated in 1980, after a new injury in a match against the clover team, played at the stadium Monumental.
Hugo Villaverde He distinguished himself not only for his football quality, but also for his distant relationship with the media. “What happens is that I say one thing and then they write another,” he once explained, justifying his decision to avoid interviews. “Also, I like listening more than talking.”, he added, showing a reflective attitude.
Anticipating his retirement, Villaverde He joked about his discretion: “When I retire from football, not even the coach will notice. He’s going to go to practice and say ‘why, Villaverde didn’t change there?’ That’s how it’s going to be…”
In that transcendent background, due to his knowledge of football and his collective sense, he remained linked to sport, to the point that he was part of Enzo Trossero’s coaching staff in his forays as coach.
