Goldie oldie! Mondragon becomes oldest World Cup player
Colombia's Faryd Mondragon has become the oldest player to appear at a World Cup after his substitute appearance against Japan this morning (June 25, Singapore time).
The experienced goalkeeper, who was 43 years and three days old when he replaced David Ospina in the 85th minute of their 4-1 triumph over the Blue Samurai, smashed the 20-year old record set by Cameroon's Roger Milla.
Milla was 42 years and 39 days old when he represented the Indomitable Lions at the 1994 World Cup.
With his side 3-1 up, Colombia coach Jose Pekerman found the right time for a cameo appearance for Mondragon, whose face was streaming with tears as he took to the pitch to replace Ospina as the crowd went wild.
Mondragon said: "It’s a great moment at the end of a long journey to play a World Cup at 43 years old. Thanks to all my colleagues."
Sources: AFP, Reuters
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