Former Argentina captain Antonio Rattín, who became one of the most controversial figures of the 1966 FIFA World Cup after his dismissal against England, has died at the age of 89.
His former club, Boca Juniors, confirmed his death on Saturday, coincidentally the same day Argentina and England both secured victories in their World Cup quarter-finals to set up a semi-final meeting between the long-time rivals.
"With deep sorrow, we regret the passing of Antonio Ubaldo Rattín, an idol and emblem of our institution," Boca Juniors wrote on social media.
"We stand with his family and loved ones in this difficult moment. Farewell, 'Rata'."
Born on May 16, 1937, Rattín was a commanding central midfielder who spent his entire club career with Boca Juniors, where he became one of the team's greatest icons.
He earned 34 caps for Argentina and represented his country at the 1962 and 1966 FIFA World Cups.
Outside Argentina, Rattín is best remembered for his controversial sending-off in the 1966 World Cup quarter-final against England at Wembley, an incident that remains one of the tournament's defining moments.
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