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FIFA President sends condolences following Cilia’s death

Published: 07-08-2017 16:50
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FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed his sympathy following the death of former Malta international Joe Cilia. Cilia, who was part of the Malta team that played against Austria in the country’s first official international match on February 24, 1957, passed away last weekend. He was 79. In his message of condolence, Infantino wrote: “Please  accept my deepest condolences on hearing that the former international  player and manager, Joe Cilia, has passed away. “Cilia played for most of his career with Valletta FC, where he notably won three national championships titles and two Maltese FA Trophy, and was elected twice Maltese Player of the Year, in 1957/58 and 1963/64. “At international level, Joe Cilia made a total of ten appearances for the national team. At the end of his career, he successfully coached several Maltese Clubs. “On behalf of the members of the international football community, I would be grateful if you could extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. “We would hope that in some way, our words of support may help bring a little bit of peace and solace in this time of sadness.” Cilia also won top-flight titles with Rabat Ajax and Valletta during his long coaching career. His funeral takes place on Tuesday at St Paul Parish Church, Rabat. Mass begins at 4pm.