Roberto Perfumo Biography: The Life And Career Of The Argentine Football Legend

Roberto Perfumo was an Argentine footballer and sports commentator who is considered one of the best Argentine defenders ever. Born on October 3, 1942, in Sarandí, Buenos Aires, Perfumo began his football career as a midfielder in youth football, playing with River Plate, but later switched to right back. He started his senior career with Racing Club, playing for them from 1962-70, then played for Cruzeiro from 1971-74, and finished his career back with River Plate from 1975-78.

Perfumo played for the Argentine national team in the 1966 and 1974 World Cups. He was known for his intelligent defending, strong aerial ability, and excellent marking skills. His nickname “El Mariscal” (The Marshal) was given to him for his leadership on the field and his ability to organize the defense. After retiring from football, Perfumo worked as a sports commentator, coach, psychologist, and secretary of sports in Argentina.

Key Takeaways

Roberto Perfumo was a legendary Argentine footballer and sports commentator known for his intelligent defending, strong aerial ability, and excellent marking skills.
He played for the Argentine national team in the 1966 and 1974 World Cups and won several titles with his club teams Racing Club, River Plate, and Cruzeiro.
After retiring from football, he worked as a sports commentator, coach, psychologist, and secretary of sports in Argentina. His legacy as one of the best defenders in Argentine football history lives on.

Early Life

Roberto Alfredo Perfumo was born on October 3, 1942, in Sarandí, Buenos Aires, Argentina. He grew up playing football with his neighborhood team named “Pulqui.” In 1960, he made his debut in the 5th division of River Plate.

Perfumo’s talent did not go unnoticed, and he soon caught the attention of Racing Club. He made his debut for the club in January 1964 in a friendly match against Flamengo played at Santiago, Chile. He played for Racing Club from 1962-1970, during which he established himself as one of the best defenders in Argentina.

Perfumo’s early life was not without challenges. He suffered a severe injury in 1964 when he collided with a teammate during a match against Boca Juniors. The injury kept him out of the game for several months, but he recovered and returned to the pitch stronger than ever.

Despite his early success, Perfumo remained humble and dedicated to the sport. He continued to work hard and improve his skills, and his dedication paid off when he was selected to play for the Argentine national team in the 1966 World Cup.

Football Career

Club Career

Roberto Perfumo began his club career with Racing Club in 1962. He played for them until 1970, winning the Primera División title in 1966. Perfumo then moved to Brazilian team Cruzeiro, where he played from 1971 to 1974. With Cruzeiro, Perfumo won the Campeonato Mineiro title in 1972. He returned to Argentina to finish his career with River Plate from 1975 to 1978, winning the Primera División title in 1975.

Perfumo was known for his defensive skills and leadership on the field. He was nicknamed “El Mariscal” (The Marshal) for his commanding presence in the backline.

International Career

Perfumo made his debut for the Argentina national team in 1966. He played in the 1966 and 1974 FIFA World Cups, helping Argentina reach the quarterfinals in both tournaments. In total, Perfumo earned 37 caps for his country.

During the 1974 World Cup, Perfumo famously marked Dutch superstar Johan Cruyff, limiting his impact in the match. However, Perfumo suffered a serious injury in that game, which ultimately ended his international career.

Overall, Roberto Perfumo’s contributions to Argentine football were significant, both at the club and international level. His defensive prowess and leadership qualities made him one of the most respected defenders of his generation.

Post-Football Career

After retiring from professional football, Roberto Perfumo pursued a career in sports commentary and coaching.

Sports Commentator

Perfumo was a highly respected commentator for Argentine television, providing expert analysis and commentary on football matches. He was known for his insightful commentary and his ability to break down complex plays and strategies for viewers. Perfumo’s extensive knowledge of the game and his engaging personality made him a popular and beloved figure in the world of sports broadcasting.

Coach

Perfumo also had a successful career as a coach, working with several Argentine football clubs. He was known for his disciplined approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, strategy, and hard work. Perfumo’s coaching style was highly respected by his players, who appreciated his dedication and commitment to helping them improve their skills and achieve their goals.

Overall, Roberto Perfumo’s post-football career was marked by his continued passion for the game of football and his commitment to helping others succeed in the sport. Whether as a commentator or a coach, Perfumo’s expertise and dedication made him a highly respected figure in the world of football.

Legacy

Roberto Perfumo is regarded as one of the best Argentine defenders ever. He was known for his impeccable technique, strength, and leadership qualities on the field. His contributions to Argentine football have not gone unnoticed, as he has been inducted into the Argentine Football Hall of Fame.

Perfumo’s legacy goes beyond his playing career. After retiring from football, he became a sports commentator and analyst. He was known for his insightful analysis and his ability to provide in-depth commentary on football matches. His knowledge of the game and his passion for football made him a respected figure in the sports world.

In addition to his contributions to football, Perfumo was also known for his philanthropic work. He was involved in various charitable organizations and was known for his generosity and willingness to help others. His commitment to giving back to the community has inspired many people to follow in his footsteps.

Overall, Roberto Perfumo’s legacy is one of excellence and dedication. He will always be remembered as a true legend of Argentine football and a role model for future generations of players and fans alike.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his football career, Roberto Perfumo received several awards and honors for his exceptional skills on the field.

At the club level, Perfumo won three Campeonato Mineiro titles with Cruzeiro in 1972, 1973, and 1974. He was also a runner-up in the Campeonato Brasileiro in 1974. Perfumo played for River Plate and won three Primera División titles in 1975 Metropolitano, 1975 Nacional, and 1977 Metropolitano. He also reached the finals of the Copa Libertadores in 1976, where River Plate lost to Cruzeiro.

Perfumo represented Argentina in the CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament in 1964. He was also part of the Argentine squad that played in the 1966 and 1974 World Cups.

In addition to his achievements on the field, Perfumo was awarded the Olimpia de Plata award for the best Argentine footballer in 1972. He was also included in the South American Team of the Year in 1968 and 1972.

Perfumo’s legacy as one of the best Argentine defenders ever was cemented when he was inducted into the Argentine Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

Personal Life

Roberto Perfumo was born on October 3, 1942, in Sarandí, Buenos Aires, Argentina. He grew up in a family of football enthusiasts, and his father was a football coach. Perfumo was married to Silvia, and they had three children together.

Perfumo was known for his love of music and was an accomplished guitarist. He also enjoyed reading and was an avid fan of the works of Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges.

In his later years, Perfumo worked as a football commentator and analyst for various media outlets. He was widely respected for his insight and knowledge of the game.

Tragically, Roberto Perfumo passed away on March 10, 2016, at the age of 73, after suffering a head injury from a fall. His death was mourned by football fans around the world, who remembered him as one of the greatest defenders in Argentine football history.

Death and Tributes

Roberto Perfumo died on March 10, 2016, at the age of 73, after falling from a stairway while dining with fellow journalists at a restaurant in the Puerto Madero neighborhood of Buenos Aires. The news of his sudden death shocked the football world, and tributes poured in from all over the world.

Perfumo’s death was widely mourned in Argentina, where he was considered a legend of the game. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) issued a statement expressing its condolences and hailing Perfumo as “one of the greatest defenders in the history of Argentine football.” Racing Club, where Perfumo began his career and won two Primera División titles, also paid tribute to the former player, describing him as a “symbol of the club.”

Perfumo’s death was also felt in Brazil, where he had played for Cruzeiro and had become a popular commentator on Brazilian television. Cruzeiro issued a statement expressing its condolences and describing Perfumo as a “true legend of Brazilian football.”

The news of Perfumo’s death was covered extensively in the media, both in Argentina and around the world. Many former players, coaches, and football personalities paid tribute to the former defender, praising his skill, courage, and sportsmanship. Perfumo’s death was a great loss to the football world, but his legacy as one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game lives on.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Roberto Perfumo’s greatest achievements in football?

Roberto Perfumo was considered one of the best Argentine defenders ever. He had a successful career in football, winning several titles with his clubs. Perfumo won the Argentine Primera Division with Racing Club, River Plate, and the Brazilian Serie A with Cruzeiro. He was also part of the Argentine national team that reached the quarter-finals in the 1966 and 1974 World Cups.

What is the background of Roberto Perfumo’s football career?

Roberto Perfumo started his football career as a midfielder with River Plate’s youth team. However, he later switched to right back and played for Racing Club from 1962 to 1970. After that, he played for Cruzeiro in Brazil from 1971 to 1974. He finished his career with River Plate from 1975 to 1978.

How did Roberto Perfumo’s football career develop over time?

Perfumo’s football career started as a midfielder, but he later switched to right back and became one of the best defenders in Argentina. He had a successful career with Racing Club, River Plate, and Cruzeiro, winning several titles with each club. After retirement, he worked as a football commentator for ESPN and TV Pública’s show Fútbol para todos.

What was Roberto Perfumo’s playing style like?

Roberto Perfumo was known for his aggressive and tough playing style. He was a strong and powerful defender who was not afraid to tackle hard and put his body on the line. He was also good in the air and had a good sense of positioning. He was a leader on the pitch and commanded respect from his teammates.

What was Roberto Perfumo’s impact on the Argentine national team?

Roberto Perfumo was an important player for the Argentine national team. He was part of the team that reached the quarter-finals in the 1966 and 1974 World Cups. He was known for his leadership and toughness on the pitch, and he was respected by his teammates and opponents alike.

What is Roberto Perfumo’s legacy in the world of football?

Roberto Perfumo’s legacy in the world of football is that of a great defender and leader. He was one of the best Argentine defenders ever and won several titles with his clubs. He was also an important player for the Argentine national team and helped them reach the quarter-finals in two World Cups. After retirement, he worked as a football commentator and was respected for his knowledge and insight into the game.