Belgian hero Thys dies
Saturday, August 2, 2003
Article summary
Belgium's legendary former national coach Guy Thys has died at the age of 80 after a long illness.
Article body
Lengthy spell
Thys, who took Belgium to the semi-finals of the 1986 FIFA World Cup finals in Mexico, was in charge of the national side between 1976 and 1990. Following a six-month break, he returned to the post in February 1990 after the dismissal of Walter Meeuws, before stepping down for good in May 1991.
Finest hour
Thys was in charge for 114 internationals in all, winning 50, drawing 27 and losing 37. His finest hour was in Mexico, when Belgium reached the last four of the World Cup before losing 2-0 to Argentina in Mexico City.
Successful career
He also led Belgium to the final of the 1980 UEFA European Championship, where they were beaten 2-1 by West Germany in Rome. Prior to taking up his position with the national team, Thys coached a number of clubs, including Club Brugge KV, Sporting Lokeren St-Niklaas Waaslan, KSK Beveren and R. Antwerp FC. He had also enjoyed a successful playing career, winning two caps for his country.
Important figure
At the time of his death, Thys was still active in public relations for the Belgian Football Assocation (KVBV) and a member of the association's coaching schools. "We have probably lost the most important coach we ever had," said KBVB press officer Nicolas Cornu. "He was certainly the most successful. We are deeply sad, and full of grief at his loss."
