How A Keeper Became So OVERPOWERED, FIFA Had To Change The Rules Of Football

Summary

René Higuita, known as 'El Loco', was a Colombian football goalkeeper who transcended the traditional role, becoming a sweeper-keeper and scoring goals. His daring plays, including the iconic scorpion kick, and his ability to stop penalties made him a legend. Despite facing personal turmoil, including imprisonment for his ties with Pablo Escobar, Higuita's impact on football was so significant that FIFA changed the rules because of him, dubbing it 'the Higuita law'. His story is one of triumph, tragedy, and the unyielding spirit of a sportsman who left an indelible mark on the game.

Takeaways

• 😲 René Higuita was known for his scorpion kick, but his career had many more remarkable moments.
• 🤔 Higuita was a highly skilled shot-stopper and penalty saver, potentially the best in history.
• 🏆 He was a pioneer as a sweeper-keeper, a concept that would later be popularized by Manuel Neuer.
• 🌟 If not for restrictions, Higuita might have been nominated for the Ballon D'Or, highlighting his impact on the sport.
• 🔒 His connection with Pablo Escobar and the Medellín cartel added a complex layer to his public image.
• 👶 Born José Zapata, Higuita took his middle names after his father abandoned him, and his mother passed away when he was young.
• 🏃‍♂️ Higuita's football talent was evident from a young age, and he became a goalkeeper by chance, leading to national success.
• 🏟️ His performances for clubs like Millonarios and Atlético Nacional were nothing short of legendary, with records and titles to his name.
• ⚽ His goal-scoring abilities as a goalkeeper were unparalleled, with a better goals-per-game ratio than some of the greatest forwards.
• 🌎 Higuita's influence extended beyond the pitch, with FIFA changing the rules to prevent 'Higuita laws' after his playing style.
• 🚓 His life took a dark turn with imprisonment due to involvement in a kidnapping case, which overshadowed his football achievements for some.

Q & A

Who is René Higuita and what is he famous for in football?

René Higuita, also known as 'El Loco', is a retired Colombian footballer famous for his unique playing style as a goalkeeper. He is renowned for his scorpion kick, exceptional dribbling skills, and being one of the greatest shot stoppers and penalty savers in football history.

What was the significance of Higuita's scorpion kick in football history?

Higuita's scorpion kick is one of the most replayed moments in sports history and symbolizes his flamboyant and unorthodox style of goalkeeping. It showcased his agility and skill, which were not typical for a goalkeeper at the time, and contributed to changing the perception of the goalkeeper's role in football.

How did Higuita's background and upbringing influence his career and personality?

Higuita came from a challenging background in the ghetto of Castilla, where he was influenced by the Medellin cartel. His father abandoned him at birth, and he was raised by his grandmother, who tried to keep him away from the cartel by involving him in the church and boy scouts. Football became his escape and passion, shaping his career and 'madman' persona.

What was the role of Colombian cartels in the golden age of Colombian football, and how was Higuita involved?

Colombian cartels played a significant role in financing football clubs during the golden age of Colombian football, which led to increased competition and success for the national team. Higuita was involved with Atlético Nacional, a club financed by the Medellin cartel, and his performances contributed to the club's and country's success during this period.

How did Francisco Maturana's coaching style influence Higuita's playing style?

Francisco Maturana was the first to recognize the method behind Higuita's madness and saw the potential for a more active goalkeeper. He encouraged Higuita's sweeper-keeper style, which was revolutionary at the time, and utilized Higuita's skills to make him effectively an eleventh outfield player.

What was the impact of Higuita's performance in the 1989 Copa Libertadores final on Colombian football?

Higuita's performance in the 1989 Copa Libertadores final, where he saved crucial penalties and scored one himself, led Atlético Nacional to become the first Colombian team to win the competition. This victory marked a turning point for Colombian football, boosting the nation's confidence and setting a precedent for future success.

How did Higuita's involvement with Pablo Escobar affect his public image and career?

Higuita's association with Pablo Escobar, including handling business for him and being involved in a kidnapping ransom, tarnished his public image. Despite his football achievements, he was perceived as a hypocrite by some, which led to legal troubles, a hunger strike in prison, and a significant impact on his career and personal life.

What changes did FIFA make to the rules of football as a result of Higuita's playing style?

FIFA changed the rules to prevent goalkeepers from handling the ball if it was deliberately passed back to them by a teammate. This change, known as 'the Higuita rule', was a direct response to Higuita's tendency to come out of the goal area and play the ball like an outfield player, which was seen as unsportsmanlike and浪费时间.

How did Higuita's career evolve after his time in Colombia?

After leaving Colombia, Higuita played for clubs in Europe and Mexico, experiencing mixed success. His time in Europe was short-lived due to financial issues at the club, and he later became a journeyman in Mexico. He retired in 2005 after a positive drug test but made a comeback in his forties for a final match.

What was the significance of Higuita's bicycle kick save against England at Wembley?

Higuita's bicycle kick save, or the scorpion kick, against England at Wembley was a remarkable display of skill and athleticism. It further cemented his legacy as an innovative and daring goalkeeper and remains one of the most memorable moments in football history.