Today we're celebrating, Chivahermanos! We're celebrating another year of life for Javier 'Cabo' Valdivia, a left winger of enormous talent and member of the legendary Campeonísimo. His goals and talent marked an unforgettable era in the Rebaño Sagrado, as they were instrumental in filling Guadalajara's trophy cabinet. That's why we're sharing his story and his time with Chivas below:
When did Javier 'Cabo' Valdivia arrive at Chivas?
'El Cabo' was born on December 4, 1941, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, so his Guadalajara roots naturally linked him to the Rebaño Sagrado. In addition, from a very young age, he had a close relationship with the Rojiblanco Club, as he saw his relatives play in the Chiverío youth teams, which motivated him to wear the Rojiblanca jersey from the age of 9.
His debut with Chivas: an unforgettable double
His big break came in an unbeatable setting: in the 1960-61 season, during the inaugural tournament at Estadio Jalisco, De la Torre called him up for the match against Monterrey. He came on as a substitute for Raúl "La Pina" Arellano and scored a double that sealed the Rebaño's victory.
His championships and consolidation with the Rebaño
His second appearance with Chivas was against Club Oro, a match in which he suffered an injury that kept him off the field for a year. He used that time to finish his university career and return to the Rebaño fully focused on his soccer, which was immediately reflected in his performance, as he managed to establish himself as a key player for Guadalajara.
Thanks to his talent and dedication, he was instrumental in winning:
- 5 Leagues (60-61, 61-62, 63-64, 64-65, and 69-70)
- 4 Champions of Champions (61, 64, 65, and 70)
- 2 Mexican Cups (62-63 and 69-70)
Javier Valdivia in the national team: his historic double in the World Cup
Valdivia also participated in the World Cup and has the honor of being the first Mexican to score a double in a World Cup, an achievement obtained in the 4-0 victory against El Salvador at the Azteca Stadium during Mexico 1970. Further proof of his enormous quality, both with Chivas and with El Tri.
Today we recognize you as one of the great figures who helped build the greatness of Guadalajara, and for that reason, the entire Rojiblanca Nation wishes you a happy birthday, Cabo!
