Bearzot Dies

After learning of the passing of legendary Azzurri coach Enzo Bearzot, I immediately recalled this picture of him (smoking a pipe), keeper-icon Dino Zoff, Franco Causio and FIGC president Sandro Pertini playing cards - Scopa I believe.

Of course, the brilliant tactician is best know for, aside from leading his team to a fourth place finish at the 1978 World Cup in Argentina, bringing Italy its first title since 1938 four years later in Spain. After three uninspired draws in group play, Italy went on to incredibly beat Argentina, Brazil and Germany in order en route to its third World Cup.

Of all the Italian teams I've seen, the 1982 one (with 1990 coming in second - the best Italian team to not win a title; earning a third place finishing instead) remains my favorite. Bruno Conti, Alessandro Altobelli, Marco Tardelli, Gaetano Scirea and of course Paolo Rossi, are pure legends in soccer.