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Died Age: 85
source:wikipedia.org
Raymond Kopa
Birthday:
13 Oct, 1931
Date of Death:
03 Mar, 2017
Cause of death:
Unknown
Nationality:
French
Famous As:
Footballer
Age at the time of death:
85
Introduction
Raymond Kopa was a renowned French football icon, who made his mark playing for both the national team and Real Madrid in the 1950s.
Early Life and Background
Kopa was born on September 13, 1931, to a family of Polish immigrants who toiled in the coal mines of northern France.
Early Career
Kopa embarked on his professional journey with Angers in 1949 before transferring to Reims in 1951. It was here that he secured two French championships and one Latin Cup.
Move to Real Madrid
In 1952, Kopa joined Real Madrid, becoming an integral part of their illustrious squad that clinched three consecutive European Cups from 1957 to 1959.
Achievements with Real Madrid
Additionally, Kopa triumphed in two Spanish league titles and another Latin Cup with the Spanish club. His prowess in dribbling, passing, and scoring endeared him to fans and critics alike.
International Career with France
Kopa also played a vital role in the French national team’s success, notably achieving a third-place finish in the 1958 World Cup – France’s best result until 1998.
French National Team Performance
Throughout the tournament, Kopa scored four goals and earned a spot in the All-Star Team. From 1952 to 1962, Kopa represented his country on 45 occasions, netting 18 goals.
Return to Reims
After returning to Reims in 1959, Kopa contributed significantly to their triumphs in two more French championships.
Raymond Kopa's Quote's
Retirement from Football
He bid farewell to professional football in 1967 after amassing an impressive record of 541 games played and 123 goals scored throughout his club career.
Post-Retirement Life
Kopa was married to Christine. She was the sister of his teammate at Angers. Later on, after he retired from football, Kopa launched his own sportswear brand, eventually settling in Corsica.
Death and Legacy
Sadly, Kopa passed away in 2017 at the age of 85.
Profile Snapshot
Name:
Raymond Kopa
Popular Name:
Raymond Kopa
Gender:
Male
Cause of Death:
Unknown
Spouse:
Chirstiane Kopa
Place of Birth:
Nœux-les-Mines, France
Place of Death:
Angers, France
Occupation / Profession:
Footballer
Personality Type
Virtuoso: Raymond Kopa was known to be quiet and keep to himself. He preferred to focus on his own game rather than partake in other activities.
Raymond Kopa's Interesting Facts
Kopa lost a finger in a mining accident when he was 14 years old.
He was part of the legendary Real Madrid team that won three consecutive European Cups from 1957 to 1959, along with Ferenc Puskás, Alfredo Di Stéfano, and Francisco Gento.
He was the first football player to receive the Légion d’honneur in 1970.
He was named one of the 125 Greatest Living Footballers by Pelé in 2004.
He was nicknamed “Little Napoleon” by the Spanish press after his performance for France against Spain in 1955.
Achievements & Awards
Kopa won the La Liga two times
He was named French Player of the Year in 1960
He won the UEFA President’s Award in 2010
Raymond Kopa won the Golden Foot in 2006 as a football legend
He was named to the Chevalier of the Légion d’honneur in 1970
He was named in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team in 1958
He won the Latin Cup twice
He won the European Cup three times
He was named Officier of the Légion d’honneur in 2007
Raymond Kopa won the French Division 1 four times
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