FIFA World Cup Winner Medal Up For Auction

The 1950 FIFA World Cup winner's medal awarded to Juan Alberto Schiaffino (1925-2002) was put to auction recently. The solid gold medal with ring suspension was given to the Uruguay squad members for defeating host Brazil in the 1950 World Cup final. It was offered on Ebay, the online auction site.

In addition to the FIFA medal, the auction contained several key items reflecting Schiaffino's duel international appearances - 20 caps for Uruguay and 4 for his adopted Italy.

The collection includes awards from his successful club career with CA Penarol before transferring to Italian giants AC Milan and later AS Roma.

The lot, which also included a commemorative Rolex watch engraved for services with Roma, did not meet the minimum bid of $150,000 USD or the "buy it now" option of $200,000 USD.

Bornstein's Boots - A Boost for Haiti

Sometimes a kick is just a kick, a smile is just a smile ... but in the case of USA international Jonathan Bornstein - the fundamentals of both worlds apply.

Recently, Bornstein offered up his game-worn soccer shoes to raise money for the American Red Cross and their humanitarian aid to earthquake ravaged Haiti.

The boots he wore (above) while scoring against Costa Rica on October 14, 2009 not only won the match for the USA, but allowed Honduras to also qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Jonathan kindly autographed the pair of shoes (above) which were sold on ebay, the online auction site. They drew 51 bids and finished with a final price of $1,725 USD - all which will go directly to the Haiti cause.

It is not often that such well publized memorabilia can make it into the hands of the general public. However, this item is well documented and a great addition to any international soccer collection.