Russian football legend Valentin Ivanov dies at 76

One of the most eminent players and coaches in the history of Soviet and Russian football, Valentin Kozmich Ivanov, died today at the age of 76.

Ivanov spent his entire playing career at a single club – Torpedo Moscow, becoming one of its symbols. He also featured for the USSR national team in 59 official matches, scoring 26 goals. Ivanov won the Soviet championship in 1960 and 1965, became the Olympic champion in 1956, and the European champion in 1960.

After his retirement as a player Valentin Ivanov proved himself to be a successful coach. He won the national championship with Torpedo in 1976, and the USSR Cup in 1968, 1972, and 1986.