Santiago Santamaría: The Legacy of the Argentine Winger
Santiago Santamaría, affectionately known by his nickname "Cucurucho," was a distinguished Argentine professional footballer who left an indelible mark on both South American and European football. Operating primarily as a winger—a wide midfielder tasked with providing crosses and attacking threats from the flanks—Santamaría was celebrated for his scoring ability and technical skill.
Born on August 22, 1952, in San Nicolás de los Arroyos, Argentina, Santamaría's career spanned over a decade, taking him from the competitive leagues of Argentina to the top flight of French football.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Santiago Santamaría
- Position: Winger
- Career Peak: Played for Newell's Old Boys and Stade de Reims
- International Honor: Represented Argentina in the 1982 FIFA World Cup
- Club Record: Ranks 2nd among all-time top scorers for Newell's Old Boys with 90 goals
- Notable Achievement: Last player to score a hat-trick for Stade de Reims in the top flight between 1978 and 2020
Professional Club Career
Santamaría began his senior career with Newell's Old Boys in 1971. His early talent quickly caught international attention, leading to a significant move to France in 1974.
The French Chapter: Stade de Reims
From 1974 to 1979, Santamaría played for Stade de Reims. During his tenure in France, he became a vital part of the attack, making 148 appearances and scoring 41 goals. A standout moment occurred in April 1978 when he scored a hat-trick in the top flight; this feat remained unmatched at the club for over four decades until Boulaye Dia repeated it in October 2020.
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Return to Argentina and Final Years
Santamaría returned to Newell's Old Boys in 1980, where he experienced his most prolific scoring period. Across two separate stints with the club, he amassed a total of 293 appearances and 90 goals, cementing his place as the second-highest scorer in the club's history. He concluded his professional journey with a brief spell at Talleres de Córdoba in 1984.
International Career and Honors
The pinnacle of Santamaría's international career came when he was selected to represent the Argentina national team. Between 1980 and 1982, he earned 10 caps and scored 2 goals, including a prestigious appearance in the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
Throughout his career, he achieved several notable honors, including the 1974 Metropolitano title with Newell's Old Boys and the Cup of the Alps in 1977 with Stade de Reims. He also reached the final of the Coupe de France (French Cup) during the 1976–77 season.
| Period | Team | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1971–1974 | Newell's Old Boys | - | - |
| 1974–1979 | Stade de Reims | 148 | 41 |
| 1980–1983 | Newell's Old Boys | 293 | 90 |
| 1984 | Talleres | - | - |
| 1980–1982 | Argentina (National Team) | 10 | 2 |
Later Life and Passing
Following his retirement from professional football, Santamaría settled in Córdoba. He passed away on July 27, 2013, at the age of 60, following a heart attack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Santiago Santamaría's nickname?
He was widely known by the nickname "Cucurucho."
Which club did Santamaría score the most goals for?
He scored the most goals for Newell's Old Boys, totaling 90 goals across his two tenures.
Did Santiago Santamaría play in a World Cup?
Yes, he represented the Argentina national team in the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
What is his notable record with Stade de Reims?
In April 1978, he scored a hat-trick in the top flight, a feat that was not repeated by another Stade de Reims player until Boulaye Dia did so in October 2020.
When and where did Santiago Santamaría pass away?
He died from a heart attack on July 27, 2013, in Córdoba city, Argentina.