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.
Raymond Kopa, a name synonymous with French football, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. With his incredible dribbling skills, exceptional playmaking abilities, and impressive goal-scoring record, Kopa left an indelible mark on the world of football.
Born on October 13, 1931, to a family of Polish immigrants in France, Kopa's love for football was evident from a tender age. Despite facing financial difficulties, his parents encouraged his passion, and he went on to join the local club, Angers, at just 17 years old.
Kopa's big break came when he was transferred to Reims in 1951, where he won two French championships (1953 and 1955) and the 1953 Latin Cup. His impressive performances caught the attention of Spanish giants, Real Madrid, who signed him in 1956.
Kopa's time at Real Madrid was nothing short of spectacular. He formed a lethal attacking trio with Alfredo Di Stéfano and Ferenc Puskás, leading the team to three consecutive European Cup titles (1957, 1958, and 1959). During this period, Kopa was crowned the Ballon d'Or winner in 1958, becoming the first French player to receive the prestigious award.
Kopa made his debut for the French national team in 1952 and went on to earn 45 caps, scoring 18 goals. He played a crucial role in France's 1958 World Cup campaign, where they finished third.
In recognition of his contributions to French football, Kopa was awarded the Légion d'honneur in 1970, becoming the first footballer to receive the honor. In 2004, Pelé named him one of the 125 Greatest Living Footballers at a FIFA Awards Ceremony.
After retiring from football, Kopa launched his own sportswear brand and eventually settled in Corsica. He married Christiane, the sister of a teammate, and had a son. Unfortunately, Kopa lost a finger in a mining accident at the age of 14, but this did not deter him from pursuing his passion for football.
Kopa passed away on March 3, 2017, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of footballers and fans alike.
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.
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.
39 Years Old
A prolific goal-scorer and Uruguayan national team captain, known for his exceptional skill, controversy, and impressive club career with Liverpool and Barcelona.
99 Years Old
A legendary Hungarian footballer and manager who scored 746 goals in 629 games, leading his national team to the 1954 World Cup final and winning four Hungarian championships. He's a iconic figure in the sport, known for his incredible goal-scoring ability and innovative tactics.
Born in 1926
A legendary footballer and coach who won numerous titles with Real Madrid and is revered as one of the greatest players of all time, known for his speed, skill, and vision on the field.
