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The FIFA World Cup 2014 will be an opportunity to judge who is the best goalkeeper in the world currently. Here, we take a look at the top 5 goalkeepers who can make a difference for their countries with their experience and their in-born talent.
#5 Hugo Lloris: France
Even during a turbulent season for Tottenham, Lloris has shone with several man-of the-match performances which have helped the club stay in contention for European football next season.
It is hard to think of a better example than Lloris who is renowned for charging off his line, clearing the ball and shutting down strikers.
After taking the captain’s armband in 2012, the French international has put on a fantastic display at the club and international level, and he will want to prove why he is regarded as one of the best ‘sweepers’ on the planet.
#4 Thibaut Courtois: Belgium
Even though Simon Mignolet had a brilliant campaign with Liverpool, Courtois, no doubt, is Belgium’s No. 1. The fact that Chelsea are considering offloading Petr Cech to accommodate Courtois in their first team, pretty much says everything.
Courtois played every minute during the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, as Belgium qualified for its first major tournament since 2002.
Throughout these qualifiers, he kept six clean sheets in ten matches. A lot will be expected from this young Belgian keeper as he looks forward to making his name on the big stage.
#3 Gianluigi Buffon: Italy
At the age of 36, in what could be Buffon’s last World Cup, he will be hoping to go on a high after a remarkable career with the Azzurris.
Having made his senior debut for Italy at the age of 19 in a 1998 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off against Russia, he has since been carrying the weight of the nation on his shoulders.
A decent season with Juventus and a couple of clean-sheets lately, all we can say is that Italy’s goalpost is in the perfect hands.
#2 Iker Casillas: Spain
Iker Casillas fell out of favor with his club Real Madrid, but I couldn’t rank one of the best keepers in the modern era any lower.
Vicente del Bosque has trusted his No. 1 for many years now and he would be hoping that the 33-year-old Spanish captain will guide his troops to yet another famous World Cup win. With nothing to prove for Iker Casillas, the fans should be in for yet another dazzling performance from the veteran keeper.
#1 Manuel Neuer: Germany
There is very little debate when it comes to choosing the No. 1 goalkeeper for Germany in Brazil.
After having a brilliant domestic season with Bayern Munich, the 27-year-old will want to prove why he is regarded as one of the most commanding and reliable goalkeeper in the world today.
With 18 clean sheets with The Bavarians last season, Neuer will be hoping for a similar performance at the upcoming tournament.
