José Buruca

José María Buruca Laforia (Atalaya, Spain, 16 May 1884 – Buenos Aires, Argentina, 6 Jun 1957) was an Argentine association football goalkeeper. Nicknamed El Vasco, Buruca Laforia is considered the first great goalkeeper of Argentina.

Career Although Buruca was short height to play as goalkeeper, his intuition made him to be just in time under the goal. His playing style (usually getting away from the goal area) made Alumni's captain Jorge Brown told him off several times. He is considered a predecessor of other goalkeepers such as Ubaldo Fillol or Hugo Gatti. Buruca won 3 Primera División championships among other titles.

In 1909 Buruca moved to Independiente where he played until 1911, then playing for Argentino de Quilmes and Racing Club de Avellaneda. After his father died, Buruca decided to quit from football.

Honours Alumni Primera División (3): 1905, 1906, 1907 Copa de Honor Municipalidad de Buenos Aires (2): 1905, 1906 Copa de Competencia Jockey Club (2): 1907, 1908 Tie Cup (6): 1906, 1907 Copa de Honor Cousenier (1): 1906