The ManicaPost
With top spot in Group C all-but guaranteed, Colombia made a sentimental substitution — bringing on a veteran goalkeeper for one last international appearance.
In doing so, Faryd Mondragon became the oldest ever player at a World Cup at the grand age of 43 years and 3 days old in the 4-1 win over Japan.
It was Mondragon’s SIXTH World Cup, including qualifying campaigns — having first started out as Oscar Cordoba’s understudy in the run-up to USA ‘94.
This is Colombia’s first World Cup finals since 1998.
Mondragon, who plays his club football in Colombia with Deportivo Cali, picked up his 56th cap on Tuesday night as a 85th minute substitute, replacing first-choice ‘keeper David Ospina.
And while playing at the 1998 World Cup in France, he was beaten by David Beckham’s brilliant free kick — but the BBC’s Tim Vickery said that Mondragon was: “single-handedly responsible for the fact that England did not run up a cricket score.”
Colombia manager Jose Pekerman had hinted that the soon-to-retire 43-year-old would get a game against Japan — and held true to his word despite admitting some reservations over the idea.
“While I’m aware of the situation I have to analyse the entire squad,’ he said before the game.
“If it happens it would be nice, but is the not prime objective before the game.”
And Mondragon, who celebrated his birthday on Saturday, praised his international manager for revitalising his career.
“Pekerman convinced me to continue playing. I will never forget that.
“If it wasn’t for him, I would have retired two years ago. I feel privileged to be here, it was my best birthday ever.”
The World Cup’s oldest player record was previously held by Roger Milla, who played at the age of 42 years, one month and eight days at USA ‘94. Mondragon has played for the likes of Independiente and Galatasaray across his 24-year professional career. — Daily Mail.
