Rene Higuita

One of football’s most eccentric and iconic goalkeepers, René Higuita was a pioneer of the “sweeper-keeper” role, redefining how the position was played in the late 1980s and 1990s. Known as “El Loco” for his audacious style and flamboyant personality, Higuita often left his penalty area to dribble past opponents, launch attacks, or attempt free-kicks and penalties.

He rose to prominence at Atlético Nacional, where he was a crucial figure in their historic 1989 Copa Libertadores triumph which was the first ever by a Colombian club. Higuita’s unorthodox technique made him a fan favorite but also prone to spectacular mistakes, most notably his ill-fated dribble in the 1990 World Cup against Cameroon that led to Colombia’s elimination.

Internationally, Higuita was a central figure in Colombia’s resurgence during the late 1980s and 1990s. Above all else, he is forever remembered for inventing the “Scorpion Kick,” an incredible save that became a moment in time which he unveiled against England at Wembley in 1995, which has since become one of football’s most famous moments. A showman, a risk-taker, and a trailblazer, Higuita remains one of the most colorful goalkeepers in football history.