Argentinian football legend Hugo Gatti has passed away at the age of 80. Known as El Loco (“The Madman”) for his eccentric playing style and outspoken personality, Gatti made over 350 appearances for Boca Juniors and is remembered as one of the first goalkeepers to wear gloves and frequently leave his penalty area.
He also earned 18 caps for Argentina, including appearances in the 1966 World Cup. Gatti’s record-setting 765 league appearances across clubs like Atlanta, River Plate, and Boca Juniors solidified his place in football history. After retiring, he became a TV pundit and remained a prominent figure in Argentine football.
He had been in intensive care for over a month following pneumonia complications after hip surgery, which resulted from a fall. His health deteriorated due to a hospital-acquired virus, and he tragically passed away on Sunday. The loss comes less than a year after his wife Nacha Nodar ’s death. Gatti is survived by two sons, one of whom, Lucas, became a football coach.
#ProfundoDolor La @afa, en nombre del Presidente Claudio Tapia y del Comité Ejecutivo, expresa su más sentido dolor por el fallecimiento del histórico arquero argentino, Hugo Orlando Gatti. pic.twitter.com/CEYHNGysA1
— AFA (@afa) April 20, 2025
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Argentina is currently playing the WC Qualification South America. It won its previous match 4-1 against Brazil.
