Sportiz
6
Sports
1000+
Athletes
10
Guesses
Daily
Challenges
Duván Zapata stands as one of South America's most prolific strikers in European football, a Colombian forward who transformed from a promising teenager in Cali to a Serie A sensation. Born in Colombia's salsa capital in 1991, Zapata has carved out a remarkable career journey that took him from América de Cali's youth academy through Argentina's Primera División before establishing himself as a feared goal scorer across Italy's top flight. Currently captaining Torino FC, this 6'2" striker has become synonymous with powerful finishing, aerial dominance, and an unwavering work ethic that has earned respect from legends like Leonardo Bonucci, who called him the toughest opponent he ever faced.
Zapata's professional story began at just 17 when he scored on his debut for América de Cali against Boyacá Chicó in 2008. The young striker's raw talent was evident, but it was his move to Argentine club Estudiantes in 2011 that truly launched his career. During his time in La Plata, Zapata exploded onto the scene with 16 goals in 33 matches during the 2012-13 season, attracting interest from across Europe.
In 2013, Serie A giants Napoli secured Zapata's signature, beginning an Italian odyssey that would define his career. Though his time in Naples included loan spells at Udinese and Sampdoria, each move proved crucial in developing the complete striker he would become. At Sampdoria, he rediscovered his scoring touch with 11 goals in 31 appearances.
The defining chapter came at Atalanta, where Zapata formed a devastating partnership with fellow Colombian Luis Muriel. His 2018-19 breakthrough season saw him score 23 Serie A goals, matching Cristiano Ronaldo's tally and earning a spot in the league's team of the year. In 2024, he joined Torino permanently and was immediately named captain, though an ACL injury has temporarily sidelined the veteran striker.
The Frosinone Masterclass: January 20, 2019, marked Zapata's arrival as a Serie A superstar when he scored four goals in Atalanta's 5-0 victory over Frosinone. This historic performance made him the first Atalanta player since 1952 to achieve this feat, propelling him to the top of the Serie A scoring charts alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
Champions League Breakthrough: Scoring Atalanta's first-ever Champions League goal against Shakhtar Donetsk in October 2019 represented more than personal achievement—it symbolized the club's remarkable rise from Serie A newcomers to European competitors.
Copa América Heroics: His successful penalty conversion in the 2021 Copa América quarter-final shootout victory over Uruguay helped Colombia secure third place in the tournament, showcasing his mental strength on the biggest stage.
Zapata embodies the modern complete striker through his unique combination of physical presence and technical ability. Standing 6'2" with exceptional aerial ability, he's equally dangerous with his feet, possessing a powerful and accurate shot from various angles. His defensive work rate sets him apart from traditional target men, while his link-up play and ability to hold possession with his back to goal makes him invaluable in build-up phases.
Former Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci's assessment of Zapata as his toughest opponent speaks volumes about the striker's impact on Italian football. His combination of physicality, technique, and work ethic has made him a nightmare for defenders throughout Serie A and a respected leader both on and off the pitch.
Despite suffering an ACL injury in October 2024 that will sideline him for the season, Zapata's appointment as Torino captain demonstrates his leadership qualities and respected status. At 33, he remains a vital figure for both club and potentially country, with his experience and professionalism continuing to influence younger players around him.
Zapata's legacy as one of South America's finest exports to European football is secure. His journey from the streets of Cali to Serie A stardom serves as inspiration for countless young Colombian footballers, proving that talent combined with determination can overcome any obstacle in the pursuit of footballing excellence.
Duván Zapata appears as one of the mystery athletes in PlaySportiz's football guessing game. With his distinctive profile combining Colombian nationality, Serie A excellence, and forward positioning, Zapata presents a challenging but rewarding puzzle for football fans who appreciate South American talent in European leagues.
Players can test their football knowledge by analyzing his nationality (Colombia), club (Torino FC), and impressive goal-scoring record to correctly guess this Serie A star. Experience the challenge of identifying one of South America's finest strikers!
Play Football Game Now