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When Manuel Neuer took to the field for Germany's opening match against Curacao in the FIFA World Cup 2026, he not only helped his team secure a resounding 7-1 victory but also etched his name alongside the legends of German football.

At 40 years old, Neuer became just the second German player to participate in five FIFA World Cups, matching the record set by the iconic midfielder Lothar Matthaus. This match marked Neuer's 20th appearance on the grandest stage of football, further solidifying his status as one of the sport's all-time greats.

Neuer's latest achievement comes less than two years after he stepped back from international play following Germany's exit from Euro 2024. His international career seemed to be over until a goalkeeping crisis led national team coach Julian Nagelsmann to make a bold decision earlier this year. With first-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen injured, Nagelsmann turned back to the seasoned Bayern Munich star, whose club performances remained stellar despite his age.

However, his recall was met with mixed reactions. Neuer had missed part of Germany's World Cup preparations due to a calf injury and did not participate in the warm-up matches against Finland and the United States.

The coaching staff believed that Neuer's experience and leadership could still be pivotal, and his selection quickly led to another historic achievement. At 40 years and 79 days, he became the oldest player to represent Germany in a major tournament, surpassing Matthaus's previous record of 39 years and 91 days set during Euro 2000.

This match also brought Neuer level with Philipp Lahm and Bastian Schweinsteiger, each with 20 World Cup appearances. Only Matthaus (25), Miroslav Klose (24), and Uwe Seeler (21) have played more matches for Germany in the tournament.

Having already won a World Cup and received the Golden Glove award, Neuer is recognized as one of the most impactful goalkeepers in the history of football.