FIFA World Cup 2026: Manuel Neuer becomes most-capped goalkeeper in tournament's history
Toronto, June 21
Germany's Manuel Neuer created history by becoming the goalkeeper with the most appearances in FIFA World Cup history, featuring in his 21st match during his side's Group E clash against the Ivory Coast on Saturday, surpassing France's Hugo Lloris.
Neuer went past Hugo Lloris, who had 20 World Cup appearances, to set a new benchmark for goalkeepers on the global stage, according to 433 X handle.
In the same match, Ivory Coast's Franck Kessie, who opened the scoring in the 30th minute, further added to his World Cup legacy. At 29 years and 183 days, Kessie also became the second-oldest goalscorer for the Ivory Coast in World Cup history, behind only Didier Drogba, who scored in 2010 at the age of 32 years and 101 days, according to Opta.
Ahead of the match against the Ivory Coast, Neuer will retire after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup 2026, as he confirmed the decision during the press conference on Thursday (local time).
The 40-year-old, who was part of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning squad and is currently featuring in his fifth consecutive World Cup as the first-choice goalkeeper, had initially retired from international football following Germany's quarter-final exit at Euro 2024 on home soil, according to Reuters.
Neuer's inclusion came as a surprise when coach Julian Nagelsmann named him in the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, following an impressive second half of the season with Bayern Munich.
"I stepped back in 2024 with a good reason after a good home Euro. For me, it was the right decision. It felt right," Neuer told a press conference, as quoted by Reuters.
Neuer made his comeback in Germany's opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match against Curacao, marking his return in Germany's commanding 7-1 victory.
"It would have been too much of a sporting burden for me (to have kept playing for the national team) for the last two years," he added.
"For me, it is clear that this is my last tournament. I do not plan to be there in two years time for the next Euro. In the last few days, I have dealt with the fact that these are the last games for Germany. But I want to look forward to all the games and not to any goodbye shirts," the veteran goalkeeper said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Imagine the pressure he must feel every match. To play at 40 in a World Cup? That's dedication. I remember watching his World Cup debut in 2010 - what a journey! Neuer is proof that age is just a number when you have passion.
Honestly, I think Germany should have given younger goalkeepers a chance. Neuer is blocking the path for someone like Ter Stegen or newer talents. Yes, his experience helps, but at what cost for the team's future? Good record, but questionable decision by Nagelsmann.
What a bittersweet tournament for him! Breaking records while saying goodbye. Neuer's 2014 World Cup performance was simply perfection - that save against Algeria, the leadership in the final. We'll miss his commanding presence in the box. 🧤👏
As a long-time football fan from the US, I've always admired how Neuer changed the game's tactics globally. Even MLS goalkeepers now try to play like him. Respect for retiring on his own terms - much better than forcing a farewell tour that drags on.
The man is a walking museum of goalkeeping excellence! 🏆 21 World Cup matches, that's incredible consistency. I hope he lifts the trophy one more time before retiring. Also, good for Kessie - Ivory Coast has some serious talent coming through.
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