# Mario Kempes

> Argentine footballer (born 1954)

**Wikidata**: [Q180649](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q180649)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mario_Kempes)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/mario-kempes

## Summary
Mario Kempes is an Argentine former professional footballer, coach, and journalist, best known for his pivotal role in leading Argentina to victory in the 1978 FIFA World Cup, where he was the tournament's top scorer with six goals. Born in Córdoba, Argentina, Kempes had a distinguished career as a striker, playing for clubs in Argentina, Spain, and Austria, and later transitioned into coaching and media work.

## Biography
- **Born:** July 15, 1954, in Bell Ville, Córdoba, Argentina
- **Nationality:** Argentine
- **Occupation:** Former professional footballer, football coach, journalist
- **Known for:** Leading Argentina to victory in the 1978 FIFA World Cup and being the tournament's top scorer
- **Employer(s):** Played for clubs including Rosario Central, Valencia CF, River Plate, and others; later worked as a coach and journalist
- **Field(s):** Association football (soccer), sports journalism

## Contributions
Mario Kempes is best known for his contributions to football, particularly his performance in the 1978 FIFA World Cup. As a striker, he scored six goals in the tournament, including two in the final against the Netherlands, securing Argentina's first World Cup victory. His career spanned over two decades, during which he played for notable clubs such as Rosario Central in Argentina, Valencia CF in Spain, and River Plate. After retiring as a player, Kempes transitioned into coaching and journalism, contributing to the development of football in various roles.

## FAQs
**What is Mario Kempes best known for?**
Mario Kempes is best known for his performance in the 1978 FIFA World Cup, where he was the top scorer with six goals and led Argentina to its first World Cup victory.

**Where did Mario Kempes play football?**
Kempes played for several clubs, including Rosario Central and River Plate in Argentina, Valencia CF in Spain, and others in Austria and Chile.

**What did Mario Kempes do after retiring from football?**
After retiring as a player, Kempes became a football coach and later worked as a journalist, contributing to sports media.

**What awards or honors has Mario Kempes received?**
Kempes was awarded the Golden Boot as the top scorer of the 1978 FIFA World Cup and is widely regarded as one of Argentina's greatest footballers.

## Why They Matter
Mario Kempes is a legendary figure in Argentine football, symbolizing the country's first World Cup triumph in 1978. His performance in the tournament not only brought international recognition to Argentina but also inspired future generations of footballers. Kempes' transition into coaching and journalism further extended his influence, contributing to the development of football both on and off the field.

## Notable For
- Leading Argentina to victory in the 1978 FIFA World Cup
- Winning the Golden Boot as the top scorer of the 1978 World Cup with six goals
- Playing for prominent football clubs in Argentina, Spain, and Austria
- Transitioning into coaching and journalism after retiring as a player
- Being regarded as one of Argentina's greatest footballers

## Body
### Early Life and Career
Mario Alberto Kempes Chiodi was born on July 15, 1954, in Bell Ville, Córdoba, Argentina. He began his professional football career in 1972 with Rosario Central, where he quickly established himself as a prolific striker. His performances in Argentina caught the attention of European clubs, leading to his move to Valencia CF in Spain in 1976.

### 1978 FIFA World Cup
Kempes' most significant achievement came during the 1978 FIFA World Cup, hosted by Argentina. He was instrumental in Argentina's success, scoring six goals throughout the tournament, including two in the final against the Netherlands. His performance earned him the Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer and cemented his legacy as one of Argentina's greatest footballers.

### Club Career
Throughout his career, Kempes played for several notable clubs:
- **Rosario Central (1972–1976):** Began his professional career and gained recognition as a talented striker.
- **Valencia CF (1976–1981):** Played a key role in the team, winning the Copa del Rey and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup.
- **River Plate (1981–1982):** Returned to Argentina and continued to showcase his scoring ability.
- **Later Career:** Played for clubs in Austria and Chile before retiring in 1996.

### Post-Retirement Career
After retiring from professional football, Kempes transitioned into coaching and journalism. He worked as a coach for various teams and contributed to sports media, sharing his insights and experiences from his illustrious career.

### Legacy
Mario Kempes is remembered as a national hero in Argentina, particularly for his role in the 1978 World Cup victory. His contributions to football, both as a player and later as a coach and journalist, have left a lasting impact on the sport in Argentina and beyond. His name is synonymous with Argentine football excellence, and his achievements continue to inspire future generations of players.

## References

1. ESPN FC
2. Transfermarkt
3. FBref
4. Argentine Soccer Database
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. UEFA.com