Mario Kempes - The Hero of Argentina’s First World Cup

Mario Kempes, born on July 15, 1954, in Bell Ville, Argentina, is regarded as one of the greatest Argentinian strikers of all time. Known for his powerful finishing, dribbling ability, and clutch performances, Kempes became a national hero by leading Argentina to their first-ever FIFA World Cup title in 1978, winning both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball in the tournament. His club career saw him shine at Valencia, where he became a legend.

Early Life and Career

Kempes started his professional career at Instituto (1970–1973) before moving to Rosario Central (1973–1976), where he quickly became one of Argentina’s most prolific goal scorers.

⚽ Scored 85 goals in 107 matches for Rosario Central.
🔥 Earned his nickname “El Matador” (The Killer) due to his deadly finishing.

His incredible goal-scoring ability caught the attention of European clubs, and in 1976, he joined Valencia in Spain.

Valencia – The Goal-Scoring Machine

At Valencia (1976–1981, 1982–1984), Kempes became one of the most feared strikers in La Liga, winning multiple individual and team honors.

With Valencia, he won:
🏆 2 Pichichi Trophies (La Liga Top Scorer) – 1976–77 (24 goals), 1977–78 (28 goals)
🏆 1 Copa del Rey (1978–79)
🏆 1 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup (1979–80)
🏆 1 UEFA Super Cup (1980)

⚽ La Liga’s top scorer for two consecutive seasons (1976–77, 1977–78).
🔥 Scored a brace in the 1979 Copa del Rey final, securing Valencia’s title.

Kempes was known for his long-range shots, dribbling runs, and ability to score in big matches.

1978 FIFA World Cup – Argentina’s Hero

Kempes led Argentina to their first-ever World Cup title, playing in front of home fans. His performances were legendary, especially in the final against the Netherlands.

🏆 1978 FIFA World Cup Winner
🥇 Golden Boot Winner (Top Scorer) – 6 goals
🥇 Golden Ball Winner (Best Player of the Tournament)

🔥 Scored twice in the final against the Netherlands, leading Argentina to a 3-1 victory.
🔥 Only player to score for Argentina in the knockout rounds of the tournament.

His powerful runs, crucial goals, and leadership made him an Argentinian football icon.

Later Career and Retirement

After leaving Valencia, Kempes played for:

River Plate (1981–1982) – Won the Argentine Primera División.
Hércules (1984–1986, Spain)
First Vienna (1986–1987, Austria)
Various clubs in Chile and Indonesia before retiring in 1996.

Playing Style and Legacy

✅ A complete forward – Combined strength, speed, and dribbling ability.
✅ A clinical finisher – Scored goals with both feet and his head.
✅ A World Cup legend – One of the greatest players in tournament history.
✅ An idol in Argentina and Valencia – Inspired generations of strikers.

Kempes influenced players like Gabriel Batistuta, Hernán Crespo, and Lionel Messi.

Teams Played For

Instituto (1970–1973)
Rosario Central (1973–1976)
Valencia (1976–1981, 1982–1984)
River Plate (1981–1982)
Hércules (1984–1986)
First Vienna (1986–1987)

Legacy

✅ Argentina’s first-ever World Cup hero (1978).
✅ One of La Liga’s greatest strikers (Valencia legend).
✅ Golden Boot and Golden Ball winner at the 1978 World Cup.
✅ A player who delivered on the biggest stages.

Mario Kempes wasn’t just a goal scorer—he was a leader, a fighter, and a national hero. His legendary World Cup performances and goal-scoring brilliance make him one of the greatest Argentinian players of all time.