Mario Kempes
#54,769 Most Popular
About
Argentine striker who was nicknamed El Toro and El Matador. He won consecutive Pichichi scoring trophies in the European leagues, playing most of his career for Valencia. He helped Argentina's national soccer team win its first ever World Cup in 1978, scoring two goals in the final match and becoming the tournament's top scorer.
Before Fame
He began his career with a local soccer club before moving to Rosario Central, where he netted 85 goals in 105 appearances.
Trivia
He was the only Argentine soccer player competing abroad who was invited to play on the national team in the 1978 World Cup.
Family Life
His father, also named Mario, inspired him to start practicing soccer at age seven.
Associated With
His performance with the Argentine national team in the 1978 World Cup inspired Gabriel Batistuta to become a soccer player.
