Totti targets Piola record before retirement
AS Roma legend Francesco Totti says he'll retire when he finally overhauls Silvio Piola's all-time scoring record of 274 goals in Serie A.
By FOX Sports staff
On Sunday, Totti moved up to joint-second on the list with a first-half penalty in a 3-1 win over 10-man Genoa.
The 36-year-old Italian reached former AC Milan striker Gunnar Nordahl's haul of 225 goals in the 15th minute after converting from the spot.
Genoa responded through a penalty of their own from Marco Borriello but goals from youngster Alessandro Romagnoli and Simone Perrotta ensured the Roma skipper's night would not be tarnished.
An emotional Totti embraced his children at the final whistle.
"It was a special night," he was quoted as saying on the club's website.
"It meant a lot to have them with me. Hugging Cristian and Chanel was everything for me. That is something I'll always remember."
Totti also revealed that Sunday's achievement was made all the more sweet given that it happened in front of Giallorossi fans at the Stadio Olimpico.
"Yes, that made it extra special. I wanted to equal this record in front of my own fans and I managed it," he said.
"I had to score this goal at the Olimpico. it was the only way I could thank all the fans, for what they've given me and what they continue to give."
The Italian icon remains 49 goals shy of Piola's record 274 Serie A goals.
"I'll retire when I beat his record. For now though I'm enjoying this win: the three points were the most important thing about this evening."
The win lifts Roma into seventh place under new coach Aurelio Andreazzoli.