Fluminense Goalkeeper Fabio Surpasses Peter Shilton's Record

Fabio makes history with 1,391st match, cementing legacy as most durable goalkeeper

Fabio breaks Peter Shilton's record for most competitive appearances in men's football, playing his 1,391st match.

Breaking Records: Fabio Surpasses Peter Shilton's Record

Fluminense goalkeeper Fabio has officially broken the record for most competitive appearances in men's football, playing his 1,391st match during his team's 2-0 victory over America de Cali at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. This incredible feat marks a new milestone in Fabio's illustrious 28-year career, solidifying his position as one of the most enduring and dedicated athletes in the sport.

The 44-year-old Brazilian goalkeeper has enjoyed an extraordinary career, accumulating over 1,300 appearances across various clubs. 

Surpassing a Legend

Fabio surpassed Peter Shilton's record, which was previously considered the benchmark for most competitive men's professional games. However, there's a slight discrepancy in Shilton's total appearances, with Guinness World Records citing 1,390 and Shilton himself claiming 1,387. Regardless, Fabio's achievement is a testament to his dedication and longevity in the sport.

Fabio, the veteran Fluminense goalkeeper, has made history by breaking a long-standing record. According to Fluminense and Brazilian media, Fabio now stands alone in football history. Although neither FIFA nor CONMEBOL has officially declared it a record, Fabio's achievement is widely recognized.

“Sometimes we don't realize the importance of such a significant achievement as breaking this record, which has stood for many years,” Fabio said after keeping a clean sheet in the Copa Sudamericana last 16 second leg. This milestone is a testament to Fabio's dedication and longevity in the sport, having spent his entire career in Brazil.

Fabio's record-breaking performance came during Fluminense's 2-0 win over America de Cali in the Copa Sudamericana. With this achievement, Fabio has solidified his position as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history, surpassing legendary goalkeepers like Gianluigi Buffon and Peter Shilton.

The home fans showed their appreciation for Fabio's achievement, chanting “Fabio is the best goalkeeper in Brazil” during the match. To commemorate this milestone, Fabio was presented with a plaque, recognizing his dedication and commitment to the sport.

Fabio's coach, Renato Gaucho, praised him, saying, “No one plays so many matches without a level of professionalism like his.” This statement highlights Fabio's remarkable work ethic and longevity in the sport, which have enabled him to break such a significant record. The recognition from his coach and fans further solidifies Fabio's legacy as a goalkeeper.

“He'll undoubtedly continue to play for a long time.

“It will be difficult for another player to surpass his record.”

Fabio's impressive career is marked by significant achievements, including winning the Copa Libertadores with Fluminense in 2023. He was also instrumental in the team's run to the semi-finals of the Club World Cup in the United States this summer, showcasing his skill and dedication on the biggest stages.

Throughout his extensive career, Fabio has accumulated an remarkable number of appearances. Before joining Fluminense in 2022, he played:

• Uniao Bandeirante: 30 matches

• Vasco da Gama: 150 games

• Cruzeiro: 976 appearances between 2005 and 2022

• Fluminense: 235 matches, including his record-breaking 1,391st appearance

Fabio's longevity and professionalism have earned him recognition as the record holder for most competitive appearances in men's football, surpassing Peter Shilton's long-standing record. His dedication to the sport is evident in his continued success with Fluminense.

Fabio's record-breaking match against America de Cali marked his 235th appearance for Fluminense. This milestone is just one chapter in his illustrious career, which began in 1997 – the same year Peter Shilton retired.

Interestingly, there's a slight discrepancy in Shilton's total appearances. While Shilton himself claims 1,387 appearances, Guinness World Records cites 1,390. Regardless, Fabio's achievement is a testament to his dedication and longevity in the sport, having played for over two decades.