French football legend dies at 72

French football legend Bernard Lacombe dies at 72

His passing leaves a big void not only in the hearts of fans but also in the history of French football.

Lacombe is one of the best goalscorers in French football history. In an 18-year career, he scored a total of 304 goals in 592 matches, becoming the second highest scorer in the history of the French National Championship.

In the “Les Bleus” shirt, Lacombe had 38 appearances and scored 12 goals, the most memorable being the goal after only 30 seconds against the Italian team at the 1978 World Cup - the fastest goal in history by a French player at the biggest football festival on the planet.

But Lacombe's greatest legacy in French football was his part in the 1984 EURO winning team - France's first major European title. After retiring in 1987, Lacombe continued to contribute in coaching and management roles, leading Lyon from 1996-2000 and then serving as a close advisor to president Jean-Michel Aulas in the process of building Lyon into a force in French football.

Lyon, the club with the longest and closest ties to Lacombe, released a touching statement: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Bernard Lacombe. He was our legend, the greatest. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Bordeaux FC - where he played from 1979 to 1987 - also could not hide their grief: "A legendary striker, who left a deep mark in the history of the club with his talent and generosity. The whole Marine et Blanc family today mourns one of the greatest players in their history. Thank you, Bernard".

The president of the French Football Federation (FFF), Philippe Diallo, praised Lacombe as a perfect example of a player and a football person: “Bernard was one of the greatest strikers in the history of French football. He played an important role in taking the national team to new heights and building a football empire with Lyon. He was an inspiration for many generations to come. We will organize solemn memorial ceremonies to pay tribute to him.”

On social networks, fans everywhere also expressed their deep condolences. “A monument of French football has passed away”, “He was a legend, a true warrior of Lyon”, “Rest in peace Bernard! Thank you for everything”…, are the reactions of fans.

With a brilliant career and noble personality, Bernard Lacombe is not only a legend, but also the embodiment of passion and loyalty to the round ball - an irreplaceable part of French football history.

Source: https://znews.vn/huyen-thoai-bong-da-phap-qua-doi-o-tuoi-72-post1561713.html