Aldo Olivieri


Aldo Olivieri was an Italian football goalkeeper from 1931 to 1943, and manager after World War II.

Club career

Olivieri was born in San Michele Extra, Verona. Nicknamed Ercolino Semprimpiedi, a famous definition of Italian journalist Gianni Brera, he played for Hellas Verona, Lucchese, and Brescia in Serie B, and Torino in Serie A.

International career

With the Italy national football team, Olivieri became World Champion in 1938.

Style of play

A courageous, spectacular, and athletic shot-stopper, with an excellent spring, Olivieri is regarded as one of Italy's greatest ever goalkeepers; throughout his career, he was known in particular for his quick reflexes, intelligence, and ability to rush off his line and anticipate opposing forwards outside of his area, which earned him the nickname il Gatto Magico. He also excelled at coming out to punch the ball away.

Death

He died in Lido di Camaiore at 90 years old. He was the penultimate survivor of the 1938 winning team squad. The last member, who died on 5 November 2006, was defender Pietro Rava.

Honours

International

;Italy