Houston, June 15 -- When Manuel Neuer walked onto the pitch for Germany's FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Curacao, he did more than help launch his nation's campaign with a commanding 7-1 victory -- he secured his place alongside one of German football's greatest icons.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper became only the second German player to appear at five FIFA World Cups, matching the achievement of legendary midfielder Lothar Matthaus.

The appearance was Neuer's 20th on football's biggest stage and added another landmark to a career already regarded among the finest in the sport.

Neuer's latest milestone came less than two years after he stepped away from international football following Germany's exit from Euro 2024. His international ...