Manuel Neuer set a new World Cup record for goalkeepers, reaching 21 appearances in Germany's 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast on 20/6. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 20 matches, which he shared with former France international Hugo Lloris.

Lionel Messi still holds the record for the most World Cup appearances with 27 matches. He is followed by Lothar Matthaus (25 matches), Miroslav Klose (24), Paolo Maldini, and Cristiano Ronaldo (23).

Neuer (in blue jersey) and teammates thank fans after Germany's 7-1 victory over Ivory Coast, during the second Group E match of the 2026 World Cup in Toronto, Canada, on 20/6. *Photo: AP*

Neuer's World Cup journey began in 2010, where he played six matches. Four years later, he featured in all seven matches as Germany triumphed in Brazil. In both 2018 and 2022, when Germany exited in the group stage, he played three matches. In this year's tournament, he has appeared in two matches, securing victories against Curacao (7-1) and Ivory Coast.

Germany has already secured qualification from Group E with a match to spare, accumulating six points from two matches. Neuer is guaranteed at least one more group stage match and a round of 16 fixture, providing further opportunities to extend his record.

Neuer had retired from international football following Euro 2024. However, his impressive performances for Bayern Munich in the 2025-2026 season prompted coach Julian Nagelsmann to persuade the 40-year-old goalkeeper to return. Nagelsmann emphasized the importance of experience and current form, which led to Oliver Baumann, the starting goalkeeper during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, being sidelined.

"For me, returning to the national team is a priceless gift," Neuer stated, also expressing his belief that Germany has a strong chance of winning the 2026 World Cup.

On 14/6, during Germany's match against Curacao, Neuer, at 40 years and 79 days old, became the oldest German player in World Cup history, surpassing Matthaus's record.

Neuer is one of football's greatest goalkeepers. He is known for his excellent reflexes and diving saves, his composure, ability to support defenders, and organize the team from the back. In the round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup against Algeria, Neuer frequently left his penalty area to sweep the ball and intercept attacks. This performance redefined the role of the modern goalkeeper.

Neuer's club career with Bayern Munich includes two trebles, two Champions League titles, and 13 Bundesliga titles, 11 of which were consecutive. For the German national team, he was a key part of their 2014 World Cup triumph, earned a bronze medal at the 2010 World Cup, and reached the semifinals of Euro 2012.

*By Thanh Quy (Source: MD)*