Record-Breaking Achievement

Brazilian goalkeeper Fabio Deivson Lopes Maciel has officially surpassed former England international Peter Shilton to claim the record for the most competitive appearances in world football. This historic milestone was achieved during Fluminense's 2-0 victory over America de Cali in the Copa Sudamericana last 16, marking his 1,391st appearance.

Career Overview

Fabio began his professional journey in 1997 and has remained loyal to Brazilian football throughout his career. He has played for several clubs including Uniao Bandeirante, Atletico Paranaense, Vasco da Gama, Cruzeiro, and currently Fluminense. The majority of his appearances were with Cruzeiro, where he played 976 matches between 2005 and 2022.

Recognition and Celebration

Despite the debate over the exact number of appearances, Fluminense has recognized Fabio as the outright record holder. The club and fans celebrated this achievement at the Maracana Stadium, where Fabio was honored before and after the match. He expressed his gratitude towards his family, friends, and teammates, emphasizing the role of faith in his success.

Future Prospects

Fabio joined Fluminense in 2022 and has since contributed significantly to the team's success, including winning the Copa Libertadores in 2023. With a contract extension until December 2026, Fabio aims to continue his remarkable career, potentially setting new records in the world of football.