Ernest Libérati
Ernest Libérati | |
|---|---|
| Born | 22 March 1908 France |
| Died | 2 June 1983 (aged 75) |
| Occupation(s) | Footballer, football manager |
| Years active | 1929–1938 (player), 1938–? (player-manager) |
| Known for | First assist in FIFA World Cup history |
Ernest Libérati (born 22 March 1908 – died 2 June 1983) was a French football forward. He represented the France national football team during the FIFA World Cup 1930, where he recorded the inaugural assist in World Cup history in the match against Mexico.
Club career
Libérati's professional journey started at Amiens in 1929. When French football embraced professionalism in 1932, he signed with SC Fives. The following years saw him play for Olympique Lillois during the 1934–1935 season, and then for Sochaux in 1935.
From 1936 until 1938, he wrapped up his professional playing days at Valenciennes. Subsequently, he moved to ESA Brive, a club competing in the lower divisions, where he took on responsibilities as both player and coach. In tribute to his impact, a stadium in Brive is named after him.
International career
Libérati's debut for France occurred on 23 February 1930 against Portugal. He netted his first international goal during his second cap on 23 March 1930 facing Switzerland.
Selected for the squad at the 1930 FIFA World Cup, he participated in all three fixtures played by France. Notably, on 13 July 1930 versus Mexico, he delivered the first-ever World Cup assist, setting up teammate Lucien Laurent for the tournament's opening goal.
Throughout his international tenure, Libérati accumulated nineteen appearances and scored four goals. His last match and goal came on 15 April 1934 against Luxembourg during France’s sole game in the 1934 FIFA World Cup qualification, a 6–1 victory that secured their spot in the finals. However, he was not selected for the final tournament squad of the French team.
Managerial career
Libérati’s only managerial position was held at ESA Brive, where he simultaneously fulfilled playing duties. In honor of his legacy, a stadium in Brive carries his name.