The FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia is mere moments away and here at Renegade GK, we have our eyes on a few keepers who are sure to stand out. If you’re a keeper then this is a perfect time to study the professionals on the world stage. Here are 5 World Cup keepers we think you should absolutely watch out for.
(This is our version of that scene in “School of Rock” when Jack Black hands out tapes of rock legends for his students to listen and study. Yeah you know what I’m talking about...)
-
Rui Patrício - Portugal
Age - 30
International Caps - 68
Patricio is easily one of the world’s top goalkeepers but is a relative unknown compared to some of the bigger names - even off the back of Portugal’s Euro 2016 success (in which he was instrumental). He is currently on the cards for a move to some of Europe’s biggest clubs and if he proves his worth during the World Cup, he might even end up on the pitch next to his fellow countryman Cristiano Ronaldo.
-
Alisson Becker - Brazil
Age - 25
International Caps - 24
Becker recently wore the captain’s armband for a friendly match against Russia back in March. He has been an instrumental part of the Brazilian squad for the last few years and has received praise from some of the highest including Brazilian goalkeeping legend (and coincidentally Brazil’s goalkeeping coach) Claudio Taffarel. He helped his league team, Roma, keep 12 clean sheets during recent european and league games.
-
Manuel Neuer - Germany
Age - 32
International Caps - 76
Neuer has long been a HUGE part of the German team. He is considered an integral part of the attacking force and that’s looking no different for when the reigning champions touchdown on Russian territory. He has a very unique play style which involves him coming way off his line and acting somewhat as a “5th defender” which allows his team to effectively keep the ball in the opponent’s half as much as possible. We cannot stress this enough - Keep an eye on this guy!
-
Thibaut Courtois - Belgium
Age - 25
International Caps - 54
Courtois is a fan favourite at his league club Chelsea and earned the badge of best keeper in the Premier League after the team won the title in the 2016/17 season. Since then he has come under some criticism so this World Cup is his chance to prove himself and show his critics that he still has what it takes to make it in the big leagues.
That said, Belgium are in the same group as England, so i’m hoping that’s not the case ;)
-
Hugo Lloris - France
Age - 31
International Caps - 98
Lloris is one of the most experienced keepers in this year’s World Cup and as such will be sporting the captain’s armband for France. He has recently come under fire for a few key errors in recent friendlies against Italy and USA which has led a few to question his place in the starting lineup. Definitely one to watch out for - another keeper who is out to prove himself and silence the haters.
So there you have it, there are many, many more amazing keepers to keep an eye out for, but these are just a few of our must-watch keepers. The more you can study the professionals and learn from their play styles and adapt that to your own game the better.
Have fun and enjoy the show folks, this is sure to be a show-stopping World Cup!
