Norberto AlonsoFootball player
Date of Birth: 04.01.1953
Country: Argentina |
Content:
- Norberto Alonso: Argentina's White Pelé
- A Star is Born at River Plate
- National Team Recognition
- World Cup Triumph
- Club Career Highlights
- Retirement and Legacy
Norberto Alonso: Argentina's White Pelé
Early BeginningsNorberto Alonso was born in 1953 in Vicente Lopez, Argentina. His footballing journey began at the tender age of eight, where he played for the local eighth division club "El Textil."
A Star is Born at River Plate
In 1971, at the age of 18, Alonso made his debut for River Plate. Having inherited the number 10 jersey previously worn by the legendary Ángel Labruna, Alonso quickly lived up to expectations. He earned the nickname "White Pelé" in 1972 for his remarkable goal against Independiente, which bore an uncanny resemblance to Pelé's strike against Uruguay at the World Cup in Mexico.
National Team Recognition
Alonso's impressive performances at club level earned him a call-up to the Argentinian national team in 1972. Throughout his career, he made 18 appearances and scored four goals for his country.
World Cup Triumph
In 1978, Alonso was part of Argentina's World Cup-winning squad, playing three matches. Despite sporadic playing time, he contributed to the team's success.
Club Career Highlights
Alonso spent the majority of his career at River Plate. He enjoyed several league titles (1975, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1985/86) and won the prestigious Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup in 1986. He also had a brief stint at Olympique de Marseille in 1976/77.
Retirement and Legacy
In 1987, Alonso retired from football after a spectacular farewell match at River Plate's Monumental Stadium, attended by 90,000 fans. He left behind a legacy as one of Argentina's greatest midfielders and an icon of River Plate.