Ignacio Scocco: The Journey of an Argentine Football Legend
Known affectionately as "El Tucán," Ignacio Martín Scocco is a retired professional footballer whose career spanned nearly two decades and multiple continents. A versatile forward with a keen eye for goal, Scocco became a symbol of loyalty and excellence, particularly at his childhood club, Newell's Old Boys, and during a trophy-laden spell with River Plate.
From the youth ranks of Santa Fe to the grand stages of the Copa Libertadores, Scocco's journey is a testament to technical skill and perseverance. His ability to operate as a second striker or attacking midfielder made him a valuable asset for clubs in Argentina, Mexico, Greece, the UAE, England, and Brazil.
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Key Facts
- Full Name: Ignacio Martín Scocco
- Date of Birth: May 29, 1985
- Primary Position: Forward
- Career Total: 438 appearances and 144 goals (club domestic league)
- Major Honors: Copa Libertadores (2018), UAE Pro-League (2011-12), and multiple Argentine Primera División titles.
- International Success: Scored twice on his senior debut for Argentina against Brazil in 2012.
Early Career and the Rise at Newell's Old Boys
Scocco's professional journey began at Newell's Old Boys, where he debuted in the Argentine top flight at age 19 against San Lorenzo. He quickly established himself as a rising star, contributing to the Apertura 2004 championship win alongside teammates like Ariel Ortega. His early impact was marked by crucial goals, including a decisive strike against Boca Juniors.
Venturing Abroad: Mexico and Greece
In 2006, Scocco moved to Mexico to join Pumas UNAM for a fee of $3.5 million. During his time in Mexico, he became a mainstay in the starting lineup, recording 18 goals in 53 appearances. He notably scored a hat-trick against Querétaro and demonstrated his range with a goal scored directly from a goal kick against Veracruz.
His career then took him to Europe, where he signed with AEK Athens in 2008. In Greece, Scocco evolved into a multifaceted attacker, playing as a right winger, attacking midfielder, and second striker. He became a fan favorite for his long-range shooting, including a remarkable 40-yard free-kick against Olympiacos that earned him the MVP award. He remained with AEK until 2011, leaving a legacy of stunning strikes and European competition experience.
Global Travels and the Return Home
Between 2011 and 2014, Scocco experienced a whirlwind of international transfers. He joined Al Ain in the UAE, where he helped the club win the 2011-12 championship. However, family reasons prompted a loan return to Newell's Old Boys in 2012, where he regained his peak form as the league's top scorer for the 2013 season.
Following a brief stint with Internacional in Brazil, Scocco made a move to the English Premier League, signing with Sunderland in January 2014. While he provided intelligence and fluidity to the attack, his time in England was limited, appearing eight times as a substitute before returning to Argentina for his third spell with Newell's Old Boys in July 2014.
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Glory Years at River Plate
In June 2017, Scocco joined River Plate for $3 million, replacing Sebastián Driussi. His impact was immediate and explosive. In the 2017 Copa Libertadores quarterfinals, he scored five goals in a single match during an 8-0 comeback victory against Jorge Wilstermann.
One of the most iconic moments of his career occurred on February 4, 2018, when he scored a solo goal against Club Olimpo, dribbling past five players over half the length of the field. This goal is often cited by fans as one of the best in recent international football. Scocco's tenure at River Plate was highlighted by winning the Copa Libertadores in 2018, as well as the Copa Argentina and Supercopa Argentina.
Retirement and International Legacy
Scocco concluded his professional career where it all began. After leaving River Plate in 2020, he returned to Newell's Old Boys for a final spell, officially retiring at the end of 2020 as a club legend.
On the international stage, Scocco represented Argentina at the U20 level, playing alongside future stars Lionel Messi and Sergio Agüero. His senior international career was brief but impactful; in the 2012 Superclásico de las Américas, he scored two goals against Brazil in his debut match.
Career Summary Table
| Period | Club | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003–2006 | Newell's Old Boys | 76 | 16 |
| 2006–2008 | UNAM (Pumas) | 53 | 18 |
| 2008–2011 | AEK Athens | 89 | 26 |
| 2011–2013 | Al Ain | 19 | 9 |
| 2012–2013 | Newell's Old Boys (loan) | 33 | 24 |
| 2013–2014 | Internacional | 17 | 3 |
| 2014 | Sunderland | 6 | 0 |
| 2014–2017 | Newell's Old Boys | 74 | 24 |
| 2017–2020 | River Plate | 52 | 20 |
| 2020–2021 | Newell's Old Boys | 19 | 4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which club did Ignacio Scocco play for the most?
Scocco spent the majority of his career at Newell's Old Boys, returning to the club for three separate spells and ending his professional career there.
What was Scocco's most successful period at River Plate?
His most successful period was between 2017 and 2019, during which he won the Copa Libertadores (2018), the Recopa Sudamericana (2019), and the Copa Argentina.
Did Ignacio Scocco play for the Argentina national team?
Yes, he played for the Argentina U20 team and earned a senior cap in 2012, where he scored two goals against Brazil in the Superclásico de las Américas.
Which European leagues did Scocco compete in?
Scocco played in the Greek league with AEK Athens and the English Premier League with Sunderland.
What is Scocco's most famous goal?
He is widely remembered for a solo effort against Club Olimpo in 2018, where he dribbled past five defenders to score, a goal often praised as one of the best of the decade.