Manuel Neuer sets World Cup goalkeeper appearance record

German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has set a new record for the most appearances by a goalkeeper in FIFA World Cup history, reaching 21 matches during Germany's group stage victory over Ivory Coast. The 40-year-old surpassed the previous record of 20 appearances held by France's Hugo Lloris.

Neuer matched Lloris's tally during Germany's opening 7-1 win over Curaçao and then broke the record in the subsequent match. The historic moment occurred as Germany secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback win against Ivory Coast, a result that sealed their qualification for the tournament's Round of 32. The winning goal was scored by Deniz Undav deep into stoppage time after he had earlier equalized in the 68th minute.

This World Cup marks Neuer's fifth consecutive appearance in the competition, a career that began in 2010 and includes playing a pivotal role in Germany's 2014 World Cup triumph. He had initially retired from international football after Germany's quarterfinal exit at Euro 2024 but was persuaded to return by head coach Julian Nagelsmann for the 2026 tournament. Neuer has confirmed that this will be his final international competition, stating he does not plan to be available for the next...