The football world has seen so many great goalkeepers that choosing the greatest goalkeeper of all time will be a great hurdle. When it comes to football, goalkeepers often don’t get same glory as strikers or midfielders.
Their role is crucial as great goalkeeper can single-handedly change course of a match with incredible saves, quick reflexes and commanding presence in the penalty area.
The Greatest Goalkeeper Of All Time
This article by Sports Buddy delves into the careers and achievements of ten greatest goalkeeper of all time celebrating their remarkable contributions to the beautiful game.
10. Sepp Maier (Germany)
The first name on our list of greatest goalkeeper of all time is Sepp Maier nicknamed “Die Katze von Anzing” (the cat from Anzing), who was known for his agility and reflexes. Maier spent entire career at Bayern Munich where he won four Bundesliga titles and three European Cups.
He was a key figure in West Germany’s 1974 World Cup. He also starred in the 1972 European Championship victories. Maier’s consistency and longevity make him a legendary figure in German football history.
9. Edwin van der Sar (Netherlands)
Edwin van der Sar had lengthy career filled with success at both club and international levels. Known for his composure and shot-stopping abilities, Van der Sar won multiple league titles with Ajax, Juventus and Manchester United.
He played pivotal role in Manchester United’s 2008 Champions League triumph and set the record for longest clean sheet streak in Premier League history. Van der Sar’s professionalism and skill set him apart making him one of the greatest goalkeepers of his era.
8. Oliver Kahn (Germany)
Oliver Kahn is also a major name in the greatest goalkeeper of all time. known for his fiery temperament and aggressive style, was dominant force between posts. Kahn’s illustrious career with Bayern Munich included eight Bundesliga titles. He won UEFA Champions League trophy in 2001 and he was named the best player of the 2002 World Cup despite Germany finishing as runners-up.
Kahn is the only goalkeeper to win the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball award. His leadership and tenacity made him one of the most respected goalkeepers in history.
7. Manuel Neuer (Germany)
Manuel Neuer who is also included in the greatest goalkeeper of all time is considered pioneer of “sweeper-keeper” role. He revolutionized position with his ability to play with his feet. Neuer acts as an additional defender.
Neuer’s exceptional performances were key in Germany’s 2014 World Cup win where he was awarded Golden Glove as best goalkeeper. With numerous Bundesliga titles and Champions League victories, Neuer’s impact on modern goalkeeping is undeniable.
6. Gianluigi Buffon (Italy)
Gianluigi Buffon often referred to as “Gigi,” is known for his longevity and remarkable consistency. Buffon has won numerous titles with Juventus including ten Serie A titles and four Coppa Italia trophies.
His crowning achievement came in 2006 when he helped Italy win the World Cup earning Lev Yashin Award for the tournament’s best goalkeeper. Buffon’s leadership and dedication have made him a role model for aspiring goalkeepers worldwide.
5. Peter Schmeichel (Denmark)
Another name of the list of greatest goalkeeper of all time is Peter Schmeichel who is widely regarded as one of most intimidating and commanding goalkeepers of all time. His tenure at Manchester United was marked by numerous successes. This included five Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the coveted UEFA Champions League in 1999.
Schmeichel’s acrobatic saves, powerful throws and vocal presence made him fearsome competitor and key figure in Denmark’s surprising 1992 European Championship victory.
4. Iker Casillas (Spain)
Iker Casillas nicknamed “San Iker,” is celebrated for his quick reflexes, agility and leadership on field. As captain, Casillas led Spain to their first World Cup victory in 2010. He also secured two European Championships in 2008 and 2012.
With over 1000 professional matches, he won numerous titles with Real Madrid including five La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions League trophies. Casillas’s career is adorned with accolades and he definitely deserved to be in the discussion of the greatest goalkeeper of all time.
3. Dino Zoff (Italy)
Dino Zoff is an Italian legend who enjoyed long and illustrious career playing until age of 41. Zoff’s leadership and consistency were pivotal in Italy’s 1982 World Cup triumph, where he captained the team to victory.
Known for his calm demeanor and exceptional shot-stopping abilities, Zoff holds a record for the longest time without conceding goal in international tournaments. This is a testament to his extraordinary skills.
2. Gordon Banks (England)
Gordon Banks is best remembered for his stunning save against Pelé in 1970 World Cup which is often cited as greatest save of all time. Banks was the backbone of England’s defense during their victorious 1966 World Cup campaign which often brings in into the discussion of the greatest goalkeeper of all time.
With his safe hands and impeccable positioning, Banks was named FIFA Goalkeeper of Year six times. He is widely regarded as one of England’s finest shot-stoppers.
1. Lev Yashin (Soviet Union)
Lev Yashin known as “Black Spider” or “Black Panther,” who is the number one on our list of greatest goalkeeper of all time is often regarded as the greatest goalkeeper of all time in football history. Playing his entire career for Dynamo Moscow, Yashin’s extraordinary reflexes, acrobatic saves and revolutionary approach to goalkeeping set him apart.
He is only goalkeeper to have won Ballon d’Or which he received in 1963. Yashin earned over 150 penalty saves, kept more than 270 clean sheets throughout career showcasing his dominance and consistency.
