Moscow: Valentin Ivanov waited 50 years to get his medal after helping the Soviet Union to win the gold in football at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics.
Half a century ago to the day, the Soviets beat the former Yugoslavia 1-0 in the final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to win their first Olympic soccer gold medal.
Unfortunately for Ivanov and some of his team mates, only the starting 11 were awarded a medal at the Games.
"I've waited 50 years for this but it's been all worth it," the 72-year-old said on Friday after finally receiving his medal along with five other living members of that 1956 team thanks to the efforts of the Russian FA and their Olympic committee.
"As we say, it's better late than never. There are only a few of us left and this is a good occasion to get together and remember those who had already passed away."
After winning gold in Melbourne, Ivanov went on to earn more glory with the Soviet Union, capturing the first European championship in 1960 and reaching the final four years later.
He also played in two World Cups, becoming the joint top scorer at the 1962 finals in Chile with four goals. He also scored twice at the 1958 edition in Sweden.
The former striker's World Cup adventure was passed to his son, FIFA referee Valentin Ivanov Jr, who officiated at this year's finals in Germany and set a World Cup record for sending off four players in the second round match between Portugal and the Netherlands.
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