French footballer and coach who scored the first-ever World Cup goal in 1930 and later managed several clubs, including Stade de Reims. He's a pioneering figure in French football history.
Lucien Laurent, a French footballer born on December 10, 1907, etched his name in the annals of history by scoring the first-ever FIFA World Cup goal in the inaugural tournament held in Uruguay in 1930. This iconic moment would forever change the trajectory of his life and cement his legacy in the world of football.
Born in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, Val-de-Marne, near Paris, Laurent was the younger brother of Jean Laurent, who also played football and represented France. The younger Laurent began his football career with the semi-professional team Cercle Athlétique de Paris, playing for them between 1921 and 1930. He later joined Sochaux, a workers' team for the car manufacturer Peugeot, where he was employed.
On July 13, 1930, at the Estadio Pocitos in Montevideo, Laurent made history by scoring the first-ever World Cup goal – a volley in the 19th minute of a game against Mexico. France won the game 4-1, but lost their remaining group matches to Argentina and Chile, and were thus eliminated in the group stage.
Laurent played for France 10 times, scoring only one other goal against England in May 1931. He was named to the French squad for the 1934 World Cup but was unable to play due to an injury. After retiring from football in 1946, Laurent went on to become a trainer and youth coach. During World War II, he joined the French armed forces and spent three years as a prisoner of war in Saxony before being released in 1943.
Laurent lived to see France lift the 1998 FIFA World Cup on home soil, making him the only surviving member of the 1930 French team to witness the triumph. He passed away on April 11, 2005, at the age of 97 in Besançon, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of football enthusiasts.
Lucien Laurent's contribution to French football is immeasurable. His historic goal in the inaugural World Cup tournament continues to be celebrated, and his legacy serves as a reminder of the power of dedication and perseverance in achieving greatness.
93 Years Old
A Moroccan-French footballer and manager who scored 13 goals in the 1958 World Cup, a record that still stands today. He's a legendary figure in French football history.
94 Years Old
A French football legend who won three European Cups with Real Madrid and was known for his exceptional dribbling skills and vision on the field.
Born in 1924
French defender who won the 1958 European Championship with France and holds the record for most appearances in the French national team.
