Italian football icon Roberto Baggio fell victim to a terrifying home invasion on Thursday evening.
While watching his national team face off against Spain in the Euro 2024 tournament, the 57-year-old was assaulted and robbed at gunpoint in his residence near Vicenza, northern Italy.
Local authorities reported that a group of burglars broke into Baggio’s home.
The intruders, according to daily Il Corriere della Sera, used a gun butt to strike Baggio on the head, causing a deep wound.
They then confined him and his family to a room while ransacking the house.
The perpetrators reportedly stole valuables like jewellery, watches, and cash before fleeing the scene.
“Thankfully, the violence I endured resulted in just a few stitches, some bruises, and a lot of fear,”
Baggio is quoted as saying by Italian news agency ANSA.
“Now, the challenge is to overcome that fear.”
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A legendary figure in Italian football, Baggio enjoyed a glittering career.
Nicknamed “the divine ponytail” for his iconic hairstyle, he represented esteemed clubs such as Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan.
On the international stage, Baggio donned the Azzurri jersey 56 times, finding the net on 27 occasions.
Widely considered one of Italy’s greatest footballers, Baggio’s achievements on the pitch are undeniable.
Following the traumatic ordeal, Baggio received medical attention at a local hospital for his head wound. Italian media reports confirm he received stitches.
The robbery adds a bitter note to what was already a disappointing night for Italian football fans.
The national team succumbed to a 1-0 defeat against Spain in the Euro 2024 match.
Italy’s progression to the next stage of the tournament now hinges on avoiding defeat in their upcoming match against Croatia.
