One of the most important figures in Argentine football history, Antonio Ubaldo Rattín, has died at the age of 89. Boca Juniors announced the death of the legendary player on its official social media account.
Rattín wore the Boca Juniors shirt from 1956 to 1970. During that time, he made 382 appearances and scored 28 goals, winning four Argentine league titles. In 1963, he led his team to the Copa Libertadores final.
A historic moment at the World Cup
Rattín, who played for the Argentine national team between 1959 and 1969, appeared in the 1962 and 1966 World Cup finals. His name is particularly associated with the quarterfinal match against England in the 1966 World Cup.
In a match where yellow and red cards were not yet used, German referee Rudolf Kreitlein sent Rattín off for arguing and insulting him. When Rattín refused to leave the field, he was escorted off by security guards.
This incident is considered one of the main reasons FIFA introduced the yellow and red card system starting from the 1970 World Cup.
Honored with black armbands
The news of Rattín's death came on the day Argentina defeated Switzerland in the 2026 World Cup to advance to the semifinals. The national team players took the field wearing black armbands for the quarterfinal match to honor their legendary captain.
Antonio Rattín left an unforgettable legacy with his successes at Boca Juniors and his stance that changed the rules of football history.
