Sergio Javier Goycochea is a former Argentine professional football player who is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time. Born on October 17, 1963, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Goycochea started his professional football career in 1981 with the Argentine club, River Plate. He went on to play for other notable Argentine clubs, such as Racing Club and San Lorenzo, before moving to France to play for French club, Marseille, in 1993.
However, Goycochea’s most memorable performances were with the Argentine national team. He made his international debut for Argentina in 1987 and was part of the Argentine squad that won the 1991 Copa America. But it was during the 1990 FIFA World Cup held in Italy that Goycochea achieved legendary status.
Argentina reached the World Cup final that year, and Goycochea played a crucial role in taking his team to the final. In the quarter-finals, Argentina faced Yugoslavia in a penalty shoot-out. Goycochea made two saves and helped Argentina advance to the semi-finals. In the semi-finals, Argentina played Italy, and once again, the match ended in a penalty shoot-out. Goycochea made two saves, and Argentina won the game, advancing to the final.
In the final, Argentina played Germany, and the match ended in a 0-0 draw. Goycochea made some crucial saves, including a penalty save from Jurgen Klinsmann, but it was not enough to stop Germany from winning the World Cup. Despite losing in the final, Goycochea was named the best goalkeeper of the tournament and was included in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team.
Goycochea’s heroics in the 1990 World Cup made him a national hero in Argentina, and his name became synonymous with penalty shoot-out heroics. He played for Argentina in the 1994 World Cup in the United States but was unable to replicate his 1990 form. He retired from football in 1999, having played for several clubs in Argentina, France, and Colombia.
In addition to his successful football career, Goycochea has also worked as a television presenter, commentator, and analyst for several Argentine television channels. He is considered one of the most beloved and respected figures in Argentine football history and is an inspiration to many young aspiring goalkeepers.
Sergio Javier Goycochea is a legendary goalkeeper whose performances in the 1990 World Cup will forever be remembered as some of the greatest in football history. His bravery, determination, and penalty-saving skills have made him a national hero in Argentina, and his legacy continues to inspire young footballers around the world.