BELGIAN football has been plunged into mourning after World Cup star Stephane Demol died aged just 57.
The former Anderlecht and Standard Liege defender passed away following a heart attack on Thursday.
Demol scored in Belgium’s 4-3 win over Russia at the 1986 World Cup finals, helping the Red Devils reach the semi-finals in Mexico.
He was named in all-star team in 1990 alongside legends like Peter Shilton and Marco van Basten.
The centre-back also played for Bologna, Porto and Toulouse as well as clubs in Greece and Switzerland.
He won three league titles with Anderlecht, and the Primeira Liga crown while at Porto.
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The Brussels club said: “Stephane Demol began his richly-filled football career with us.
“The former Red Devil has left this life aged 57. We will miss him – rest in peace, Stephane.”
Porto announced: “He was a defender who also had goals in him.
“A champion, a Dragon, and one of us.
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“Farewell, Stephane. Heartfelt condolences to his friends and family.”
Capped 38 times, Brussels-born Demol had a stint as Belgium’s assistant manager.
The globe-trotting boss also coached clubs in Belgium, Greece, Cyprus, Thailand and Saudi Arabia.
He left his last management job, with Saudi outfit Hajer, seven years ago.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
