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Vicente De la MataArgentine footballer, striker
Date of Birth: 15.01.1918
Country:  Argentina |
Content:
- Vicente de la Mata: Legendary Argentine Striker
- Early Life and Career
- International Success and Club Dominance
- International Career and Achievements
- Retirement and Legacy
- Honors
Vicente de la Mata: Legendary Argentine Striker
Vicente de la Mata was an Argentine footballer and striker who played for the Argentina national team. He is considered one of the legends of the club "Independiente," where he formed the famous attacking trio with Arsenio Erico and Antonio Sastre.
Early Life and Career
Vicente de la Mata was born on January 15, 1918, in the Tablada neighborhood of Rosario, Argentina. He began his career in the youth team of his hometown club "Club Atlético Rosario Central." In 1936, he made his debut in the club's senior team, receiving a salary of 200 pesos plus an additional 150 pesos per game.
International Success and Club Dominance
At the age of 19, de la Mata was called up to the Argentina national team for the South American Championship. In the final match against Brazil on January 31, he scored two goals in extra time, securing the championship for his team.
After his success at the South American tournament, de la Mata attracted the attention of major clubs. In 1937, he joined "Club Atlético Independiente," where he played until 1950. During his time at Independiente, he scored 151 goals in 362 matches and won three Argentine championships. De la Mata was an integral part of the club's famous attacking line, alongside Arsenio Erico and Antonio Sastre. In 66 matches, the trio scored a remarkable 216 goals (3.3 goals per game).
International Career and Achievements
With the Argentina national team, de la Mata made 13 appearances, scoring 6 goals. He won three South American Championships during his international career.
Retirement and Legacy
After leaving Independiente, de la Mata played for "Club Atlético Newell's Old Boys" for two seasons, scoring only 1 goal. He then retired from professional football. Vicente de la Mata passed away on August 4, 1980, due to pulmonary emphysema.
Honors
TeamSouth American Champion: 1937, 1945, 1946
Argentine Champion: 1938, 1939, 1948
Individual
Best Player of the South American Championship: 1937
