Football icon Roberto Baggio rushed to hospital after being beaten by armed robbers
Roberto Baggio was watching Italy's Euro 2024 clash with Spain on Thursday evening when he was attacked by five armed men who broke into his villa in Altavilla Vicentina
Italian football legend Roberto Baggio was hospitalised after being assaulted during a robbery at his home.
The 57-year-old, famed as the 'Divine Ponytail', was watching Italy's Euro 2024 match against Spain on Thursday (June 20) when he became the victim of a violent burglary. Reports from Italian media describe the attack at his Altavilla Vicentina villa as "serious".
During the terrifying ordeal, Baggio attempted to fend off five armed intruders who had forced their way into his residence while he was engrossed in the game. The Corriere del Veneto newspaper reported that the "nightmare lasted about forty minutes".
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After failing to overpower the assailants, Baggio and his family were confined to a closet upstairs, while the robbers made off with valuable watches and jewellery.
Once the attackers left, Baggio managed to break free and alert the authorities. Subsequently, he was admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment, requiring stitches due to injuries sustained in the incident, reports the Daily Star.
Baggio's storied career was spent entirely in Italy, beginning at Vicenza before memorable stints at Fiorentina and Juventus. He also played for AC Milan, Bologna, Inter Milan, and enjoyed a resurgence at Brescia towards the end of his playing days.
Yet, it is his contributions to the Italian national team, particularly during the early 90s, that remain etched in the hearts of Italian football fans.
In 1994, Baggio led Italy to the World Cup final against Brazil in the USA. The match was a nail-biter, with neither side able to secure victory in regular or extra time, leading to a penalty shootout.
Baggio, with a long run-up, managed to fool Brazilian goalkeeper Claudio Taffarel, but his shot soared over the crossbar. This iconic moment of Baggio standing alone on the penalty spot is etched in World Cup folklore.
Since hanging up his boots in 2004, Baggio has remained active in football. He notably served as president of the technical sector of the Italian football federation between 2010 and 2013.
