Sport: Soccer Country: Germany Category: Scores & Results

Germany's Neuer plays in fifth World Cup at age 40

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 12:50 AM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Germany's Neuer plays in fifth World Cup at age 40

Summary

Manuel Neuer, at age 40, made his World Cup debut in Germany's 7-1 win over Curaçao on June 14. This match marked Neuer's 20th World Cup appearance, tying him with Lothar Matthäus for the most by a German player. After retirement from national duty post-2024 European Championship, Neuer returned following an injury to Marc-André ter Stegen. Dominating the game, Neuer's only save was a deflected shot that resulted in Curaçao's first World Cup goal. He later exchanged jerseys with Curaçao goalkeeper Eloy Room after the match.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Neuer ties Matthäus for most World Cup appearances by a German player
•He returned to the national team after a brief retirement
•Neuer's performance was solid despite conceding one goal
•Curaçao celebrated their first World Cup goal against Neuer
•Exchange of jerseys took place post-match with goalkeeper Eloy Room

Latest Updates

12:50 AMYahoo Sports — Forget retirement. Germany's Neuer 'overjoyed' in fifth World Cup

What they're saying

"
Neuer came out of national team retirement to play for Germany in the 2026 World Cup. Germany's opening win over Curacao was his 20th World Cup game.
— Yahoo Sports

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