
The greatest goalkeepers in history
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Here is an overview of some of the greatest goalkeepers in football history , both in terms of achievements, influence and legendary moments:
🏆 Legends from the past
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Lev Yashin (Soviet Union) – The only goalkeeper to have won the Ballon d'Or (1963). Known as "The Black Panther".
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Dino Zoff (Italy) – Won the World Cup in 1982 at the age of 40. One of the most consistent and long-lasting goalkeepers ever.
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Gordon Banks (England) – World Cup winner 1966. Best remembered for the “save of the century” against Pelé in the 1970 World Cup.
⚽ Modern icons
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Peter Schmeichel (Denmark) – Key player in Manchester United's heyday in the 90s, including the Champions League triumph in 1999.
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Oliver Kahn (Germany) – Known for his strength and mentality. Won the “Golden Ball” as the best player in the 2002 World Cup (rare for a goalkeeper).
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Iker Casillas (Spain) – Captain when Spain won Euro 2008, the World Cup 2010 and Euro 2012. A master of reflex saves.
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Gianluigi Buffon (Italy) – World Champion 2006. Played at the top level for over 20 years, a legend in Juventus and the national team.
⚡ Newer generations
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Manuel Neuer (Germany) – Revolutionized the role of “sweeper-keeper”. World Cup winner 2014.
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Thibaut Courtois (Belgium) – Champions League hero for Real Madrid in the 2022 final.
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Alisson Becker (Brazil) – Vital to Liverpool's success under Jürgen Klopp, known for his balance between reflexes and composure.
🥅 Special profiles
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José Luis Chilavert (Paraguay) – The goalkeeper who scored many goals (free kicks and penalties).
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Rogério Ceni (Brazil) – The highest-scoring goalkeeper in history (over 130 goals).
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René Higuita (Colombia) – Remembered for his spectacular “scorpion save” and adventurous style.
Who is missing in your opinion?