Inter Milan legend Sandro Mazzola dies aged 83

Italian football mourns the passing of legendary player Sandro Mazzola, who died at the age of 83, announced Inter Milan on Saturday. Mazzola dedicated his entire 17-year professional career to Inter Milan, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history. The club paid tribute to the exceptional footballer, describing him as one of the greatest to ever grace the sport.

Throughout his illustrious career, Mazzola donned the same shirt for over half a decade, showcasing his unwavering dedication to the team. The attacking midfielder amassed an impressive tally of 158 goals in 565 competitive appearances for Inter, securing four Italian league titles and two European Cups. Mazzola's crowning moment came in the 1964 European Cup final, where Inter Milan triumphed over Real Madrid 3-1, marking their first European Cup victory.

The team successfully defended their title the following year. Mazzola's prowess extended beyond Inter Milan, as he also represented Italy with distinction. He led the Italian team to victory in the 1968 European Championship and finished as runners-up at the 1970 World Cup, solidifying his status as a true footballing ambassador.

Sandro Mazzola's football journey was deeply intertwined with tragedy, as his father, Valentino Mazzola, was the captain of the legendary Grande Torino team that dominated Italian football in the 1940s. Tragically, Valentino Mazzola perished in the Superga air disaster on May 4, 1949, along with almost the entire Torino team when Mazzola was just six years old.