Last update 13 November, 2024 by Alberto Llopis
Who are the Oldest players who played in a World Cup? The World Cups have always been the perfect setting for the best players of each era, but some, in addition to demonstrating its quality, have marked milestones for their longevity. Here we present the oldest players who have played in a World Cup, from authentic legends like Roger Milla to recent records like that of Essam El-Hadary.
Older players who played in the World Cup
1. Essam El-Hadary (45 years, 161 days)
The Egyptian Essam El-Hadary set the record as the oldest player to play in a World Cup match. He 25 June 2018, to the 45 years and 161 days, El-Hadary started the group stage match against Saudi Arabia at the World Cup in Russia 2018. In that meeting, El-Hadary made history by saving a penalty, proving that age is not an obstacle for a goalkeeper of his category. This record surpasses that of the Colombian Faryd Mondragón, who had established it in the previous tournament.
2. Faryd Mondragon (43 years, 3 days)
He 24 June 2014, Faryd Mondragon He became the oldest player to play in a World Cup match up to that point.. Con 43 years and 3 days, The Colombian goalkeeper entered the field in Colombia's match against Japan in Brazil 2014, thus breaking the record. Mondragon, who had already played in the World Cup 1994, completed his history in the World Cup competition with this memorable participation.
3. Roger Milla (42 years, 1 my, 8 days)
Roger Milla was a pioneer by showing that veteran players could make a difference in the World Cup. In the World Cup 1994 in United States, Milla, to their 42 years, 1 month and 8 days, He scored a goal against Russia and became the oldest field player to play and score in a World Cup. His iconic participation with Cameroon in this edition, after having retired, made him a legend and an eternal reference in the world championships.
4. Pat Jennings (41 years, 0 days)
Northern Irish goalkeeper Pat Jennings played the last match of his international career on the same day he turned 41 years, at the World Cup in Mexico 1986. With more than 22 years defending the Northern Ireland goal, Jennings left his mark as one of the most experienced players to play in a World Cup.
5. Peter Shilton (40 years, 9 months, 19 days)
The English archer Peter Shilton, a legend in British football, He played his last World Cup in Italy 1990, to the 40 years and 9 months. Shilton is remembered not only for his seniority, but also for his participation in iconic moments of the World Cups, like England's match against Argentina in 1986, where he faced the famous goal of the “Hand of God” of Maradona.
6. Dino Zoff (40 years, 4 months, 13 days)
Dino Zoff He was the oldest goalkeeper to win a World Cup, con 40 years, 4 months and 13 days. In 1982, Italy was crowned world champion in Spain with Zoff defending the goal. His experience and leadership were essential for Italy to establish itself, leaving a mark of experience in the World Cups.
7. but Boumnijel (40 years, 2 months, 12 days)
Tunisian goalkeeper Ali Boumnijel played his last World Cup in Germany 2006, to the 40 years and 2 months. Their participation was brief due to the early elimination of Tunisia, but his longevity on the field allowed him to enter this exclusive list of veteran players in the history of the World Cups.
Each of these players is not only remembered for their age, but for the great contribution they gave to their national teams in World Cups. His experience and skill were key to the achievements of his teams., making history and breaking barriers in world football.