Fábio’s Final Frontier: Brazilian Goalkeeper Breaks World Appearance Record
In a historic moment for football, Brazilian goalkeeper Fábio Deivson Lopes Maciel has etched his name into the annals of the sport by breaking the long-standing record for the most competitive appearances in world football. The 44-year-old shot-stopper made his 1,391st appearance in Fluminense’s 2-0 victory over America de Cali in the Copa Sudamericana, surpassing the previous record held by legendary England goalkeeper, Peter Shilton.
A Storied Career
Fábio’s remarkable journey began in 1997, the very same year that Shilton hung up his gloves. Over the course of his 28-year career, Fábio has been a constant presence between the posts for a number of Brazilian clubs, including Vasco da Gama, and most notably, Cruzeiro, where he made a staggering 976 appearances. Now with Fluminense, he continues to defy age and expectations, adding to his incredible legacy. His most recent contract extension will keep him at the club until December 2026, by which time he will be 46.
The Record in Question
The exact number of Shilton’s appearances has been a subject of some debate. While the Guinness Book of Records lists his total as 1,390, Shilton himself claims a tally of 1,387. The discrepancy arises from the inclusion of 16 unofficial games by Guinness, which Shilton does not count, while Shilton includes 13 appearances for England’s Under-23s team. However, with his 1,391st appearance, Fábio has now surpassed even the highest of these disputed totals, solidifying his claim as the most-capped player in football history.
A Legacy of Longevity and Success
While Fábio has never been capped for the senior Brazilian national team, his career has been far from short of accolades. He was a member of the Brazil U-19 team that won the World Cup in 1997 and has won numerous domestic honors in Brazil, including the Copa do Brasil and the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. In 2023, he added the prestigious Copa Libertadores to his collection with Fluminense. He also holds the record for the most clean sheets in football history, with over 500 to his name.
Fábio’s achievement is a testament to his incredible dedication, professionalism, and passion for the game. In an era where players often move between clubs and leagues, his loyalty and longevity stand as a shining example. As he continues to add to his record-breaking tally, one thing is certain: Fábio Deivson Lopes Maciel is a true legend of the beautiful game.
