France icon Bernard Lacombe has died at the age of 72 after a stellar career that saw him win Euro 1984 with Les Blues and also become a World Cup holder with tributes pouring in
Bernard Lacombe has died at the age of 72(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
France legend Bernard Lacombe, who was part of the Les Blues side that won the Euros in 1984, has died aged 72. The former striker forged an impressive reputation at clubs such as Lyon and Bordeaux during his 18-year career.
Lacombe helped the French claim their first ever European Championship when they won the trophy on home soil with Michel Platini their shining light. Six years earlier and the forward scored the fastest ever goal by a French player at a World Cup, netting after 30 seconds against Italy in 1978.
Lacombe had a serious eye for goal and was prolific throughout his career, scoring 304 goals in 592 appearances in all competitions. That included 12 goals for the French side across his 38 appearances.
After hanging up his boots in 1987, he went into management and led Lyon between 1996 and 2000. His death means that he is the first of the Euro-winning squad to pass away with tributes pouring in.
Lyon, where he played and manager, said on social media: “It is with great sadness that we learned this Tuesday evening of the death of Bernard Lacombe. All our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones, as well as to the fans of Olympique Lyonnais and football. Farewell Bernard, you were our legend, the greatest of all.”
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Bordeaux posted their own tribute to Lacombe which read: “Having played for Bordeaux between 1979 and 1987, this legendary striker left his mark on the club’s history with his talent and generosity. The entire Marine et Blanc family mourns today a striker of rare elegance, one of the greatest players in the club’s history. Thank you, Bernard.”
The president of the FFF, Philippe Diallo, said in an emotional message: “It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of Bernard Lacombe. Bernard Lacombe left an indelible mark on French football, as a player, coach, and manager.
The striker enjoyed some historic moments in a French shirt(Image: Getty)
“He was one of the greatest strikers in the history of French football. The second-highest scorer in Division 1, he made his mark on the glorious history of Lyon, Saint-Étienne, and Bordeaux. He also shone with the French national team. His goals helped establish Les Bleus on the international stage.
“Bernard Lacombe was a major contributor to the 1984 European Championship title. He performed some of France’s greatest feats, including his goal in the opening seconds of the game against Italy at the 1978 World Cup. He was undoubtedly a source of inspiration for many strikers.”