Not just a goalkeeper… Neuer is making World Cup history

Germany’s Manuel Neuer wrote his name in golden letters in World Cup records after becoming the most capped goalkeeper in World Cup history with 21 appearances, one ahead of France’s Hugo Lloris, after starting the 2026 match against Ivory Coast.

The Germany captain took the record away from Lloris, who has been in the top spot since the 2022 World Cup, after Germany’s early setbacks in the 2018 and 2022 editions prevented Neuer from continuing his rise.

Lloris took his tally to 20 after France won Russia 2018 and then reached the final at Qatar 2022, where the Roosters lost to Argentina on penalties.

Neuer’s achievement reflects not only the length of his journey, but also Germany’s third-highest performance since his debut in South Africa in 2010, through to a historic crown in Brazil in 2014, leading up to the 2026 World Cup.

Over the course of 16 years, Neuer maintained his position as Germany’s No. 1 goalkeeper under four different coaches, never losing his luster or relinquishing his throne to any rival.

Neuer was not just a traditional goalkeeper, but rather a pioneer who redefined the position in the “modern libero” style, as he was known for playing outside the penalty area and actively participating in attacks, making him an icon for an entire generation of goalkeepers.

Today, he adds to his rich legacy with a new record that places him alone at the top of World Cup goalkeeper history, surpassing immortal legends such as Claudio Tafarel, Sepp Mayer, Dino Zoff and Iker Casillas.

The list of the most participating goalkeepers in the history of the World Cup.

Manuel Neuer – 21 matches (Germany)

Hugo Lloris – 20 matches (France)

Claudio Tafarel – 18 matches (Brazil)

Sep Mayer – 18 matches (Germany)

Dino Zoff – 17 matches (Italy)

Fabien Barthez – 17 matches (France)

Iker Casillas – 17 matches (Spain)

Peter Shilton – 17 matches (England)