Football in mourning for Sandro Mazzola, Inter legend – PHOTO

Football mourns the passing of Sandro Mazzola, an unforgettable emblem of Inter and a pillar of the Italian national team, who would have turned 84 last November; the news is accompanied by a commemorative photo. The sporting world expresses deep condolences, recalling his legendary career and the triumphs he achieved.

Born in 1942, Sandro Mazzola was the son of Valentino, a legend of the Grande Torino, who died in the Superga tragedy. The youngster took his first steps in Cassano d'Adda, where he was discovered by the Inter player Benito "Veleno" Lorenzi. He was later placed under the youth care of Giuseppe Meazza.

His Serie A debut came on 10 June 1961, when Angelo Moratti fielded the "Ragazzi" lineup as a protest against Juventus. In the 9-1 victory, the then eighteen‑year‑old Mazzola scored his first goal from a free kick.

From centre‑forward to attacking midfield

Under coach Helenio Herrera, Mazzola was moved from the centre‑forward role to that of attacking midfield, becoming the cornerstone of the Inter side. This transformation highlighted his technical abilities and his vision of the game.

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His Inter career ended in 1977, after the Coppa Italia final against Milan, closed with a Dante quote: "It is thus where it can be." In total he amassed 572 appearances, 162 goals, four Serie A titles, two European Cups and two Intercontinental Cups.

Wearing the blue shirt of Italy he totaled 70 caps and 22 assists, debuting with a penalty in the 3-0 victory over Pelé's Brazil in 1963. He was a key figure in the victorious Euro 1968 and the runner‑up finish at the 1970 World Cup, where Italy beat West Germany 4-3 in the semi‑final, sharing the pitch with Gianni Rivera.

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After retiring, Mazzola embarked on an executive career, working for Genoa, Torino and, above all, for Massimo Moratti's Inter, where in 1997 he signed the historic signing of Ronaldo "The Phenomenon". His contribution remains a cornerstone in the club's history.