Manuel Neuer has been dubbed ‘the best goalkeeper in the world’ by Oliver Kahn as Germany’s star shot-stopper prepares for Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final against Brazil, AFP.
The 28-year-old has played a key part in Germany’s run to the last four of Brazil 2014 by dominating his penalty area and pulling off a string of key preserves.
Neuer has shown great timing and judgement by frequently cutting out long passes or crosses with runs out of his own area, often acting more akin to an extra advocator.
He has leaked only three goals in five games at the World Cup. He was outstanding in the Germans’ nervy 2-1 last 16 win to shut Algeria out until the 121st-minute.
Neuer then nullified France’s potent attack in Friday’s 1-0 quarter-final win at Rio de Janeiro’s Maracana Stadium to establish the Selecao clash in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday for a place in the July 13 final.
He perpetually gainsaid France’s Karim Benzema, including a crucial preserve just afore the final whistle to palm away the Authentic Madrid star’s goal-bound shot.
Former Germany midfielder and TV pundit Mehmet Scholl has dubbed him ‘Icecube Neuer’ for his composure, while ex-national team captain Kahn verbally expresses he is the world’s best.
“He has proven at this World Cup that he is currently the world’s best goalkeeper,” verbally expressed Kahn, who captained Germany to their 2002 World Cup final defeat to Brazil.
“Everyone kens that he is a sublime footballer who can play genuinely well. But what is crucial is that in consequential situations he can rescue the victory.”