History of Mario Kempes in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 19, 2026

Mario Kempes is a legendary Argentine former professional footballer, widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in the sport's history. He rose to international prominence as the hero of the 1978 FIFA World Cup, where he led Argentina to their first-ever title. Kempes was the tournament's top scorer, securing the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball for his exceptional performances, including two goals in the final against the Netherlands. Throughout his club career, he is best remembered for his prolific tenure at Valencia CF, where he won two consecutive Pichichi trophies as La Liga's top scorer and helped the team secure domestic and European silverware. Known for his powerful left foot, clinical finishing, and distinctive long hair, 'El Matador' remains an iconic figure in world football and a pivotal individual in Argentina's sporting heritage.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

July 1954: Birth of Mario Alberto Kempes

On July 15, 1954, Mario Alberto Kempes was born in Bell Ville, Córdoba, Argentina, to parents of German and Italian heritage.

Others born on this day/year

1962: Garrincha's World Cup Achievement

In 1962, Garrincha achieved the rare feat of winning the Golden Boot, the Golden Ball, and the World Cup title in a single tournament, an accomplishment Mario Kempes would later replicate in 1978.

1974: First World Cup Appearance

In 1974, Mario Kempes made his first appearance representing Argentina in the World Cup tournament.

1974: First World Cup Appearance in West Germany

In 1974, at the age of 19, Mario Kempes competed in the World Cup in West Germany but failed to register any goals during the tournament.

1976: Pichichi Award and Valencia success

During the 1976-77 season in 1976, Mario Kempes demonstrated his prolific scoring ability by netting 24 goals, securing his first consecutive Pichichi award while playing for Valencia.

1977: Second consecutive Pichichi achievement

In 1977, marking the 1977-78 season, Kempes continued his dominant form at Valencia, scoring 28 goals to claim his second consecutive Pichichi title.

1978: World Cup Goal Drought

During the 1978 World Cup tournament, Mario Kempes remained scoreless following the conclusion of the first round group stage.

1978: 1978 World Cup Victory and Golden Boot

During the 1978 World Cup, Mario Kempes led Argentina to victory, winning the championship title while finishing as the tournament's top goalscorer with six goals, including a crucial double in the final against the Netherlands on this date in 1978.

1978: Triple Individual Football Accolades

In 1978, Mario Kempes achieved significant career-milestones by winning three major individual honors: the South American Footballer of the Year, the Onze d'Or European Footballer of the Year, and the World Cup Golden Ball.

1978: Argentina's World Cup Victory

In 1978, Mario Kempes served as the centerpiece for Argentina's successful World Cup campaign, netting two goals in the final match and securing both the Golden Boot for top goalscorer and the Golden Ball for the best player of the tournament.

1978: South American Football Player of the Year Award

In 1978, Mario Kempes was honored as the South American Football Player of the Year by the newspaper El Mundo in Caracas, Venezuela.

1978: Selection for the 1978 World Cup

In 1978, Mario Kempes was selected by coach César Luis Menotti as the sole foreign-based player for the Argentina national team squad competing in the 1978 World Cup, with Menotti praising his strength, skill, and versatility as a center-forward.

1982: Paolo Rossi's World Cup Achievement

In 1982, Paolo Rossi joined the exclusive list of players who claimed the Golden Boot, Golden Ball, and World Cup title during the same tournament, matching the success previously attained by Kempes and Garrincha.

1982: Third World Cup Participation

Mario Kempes concluded his World Cup appearances for Argentina by participating in the 1982 tournament, marking his third time representing his country on this global stage.

1984: Departure from Valencia

In 1984, Mario Kempes concluded his time with the Valencia football club, marking a significant transition in his professional career as he moved on to play for Hércules.

1997: End of managerial tenure in Albania

In 1997, Mario Kempes's period as a manager in Albania concluded, marking the end of his brief and historical spell with the club Lushnja where he had previously made headlines for signing foreign players.

1999: Managing The Strongest in Bolivia

Following his previous roles, Mario Kempes moved to Bolivia in 1999 to take over the managerial duties for the football club The Strongest.

2000: Appointed manager of Blooming

In the year 2000, continuing his career in Bolivia, Mario Kempes transitioned from his previous role to take charge as the manager of the football club Blooming.

March 2004: FIFA 100 Inclusion

In March 2004, Mario Kempes was recognized by the legendary footballer Pelé as one of the top 125 greatest living footballers.

2004: Inclusion in FIFA 100

During the 2004 FIFA 100th anniversary celebration, Mario Kempes was honored by being named one of the Top 125 greatest living footballers, a major recognition of his legacy.