Rafael Albrecht

Argentine defender who scored 95 top-flight goals and played in two World Cups.

José Rafael Albrecht (23 August 1941 – 3 May 2021) was an Argentine professional footballer who played as a defender. He represented Argentina at the 1962 and 1966 World Cups.

Quick Facts

Key achievement: Copa México (1970–71, 1971–72) and Campeón de Campeones (1970–71, 1971–72)

Lore & Background

Albrecht was born in Tucumán. He started his career with Club Atlético Tucumán in 1957. In 1960, he was signed by Estudiantes. In 1962 he was transferred to San Lorenzo for 10 million pesos. He played 229 games for the club, scoring 56 goals, most of them penalties. In the 1966 World Cup, he was sent off in a scoreless draw with West Germany and suspended for the next match. In 1970 he moved to Mexico, first playing with Club León, then Atlas, where he retired in 1975. He played 506 top flight games, scoring 95 goals, placing 7th on the IFFHS list of top scoring defenders. He died on 3 May 2021, aged 79, after two weeks of hospitalization with COVID-19.

Reader's Guide

Albrecht was a defender known for his penalty-taking ability. He was part of San Lorenzo's undefeated 1968 Metropolitano championship team. He won two Copa México and two Campeón de Campeones with Club León.