Goalkeepers are often known for their incredible saves, quick reflexes, and leadership at the back. However, there is a rare breed of goalkeepers who defy expectations by excelling in an area traditionally reserved for outfield players—free-kicks. These goalkeepers not only command their penalty area but also have the technical ability to score stunning goals from set pieces. In this article, we explore which goalkeeper is rated amongst the best in the world in taking free-kicks and examine their impact on the game.
The Rarity of Free-Kick Taking Goalkeepers
Most goalkeepers focus on their primary duty—stopping goals rather than scoring them. However, a select few have developed a unique skill set that allows them to contribute to their team’s goal tally. Free-kick taking goalkeepers are rare because taking a free-kick often requires stepping out of their designated area, leaving their goal unprotected. This unconventional role demands confidence, precision, and exceptional technique.
The Most Famous Free-Kick Taking Goalkeeper: Rogério Ceni
When discussing which goalkeeper is rated amongst the best in the world in taking free-kicks, one name stands out—Rogério Ceni. The Brazilian legend is widely regarded as the greatest goal-scoring goalkeeper in football history.
Rogério Ceni’s Record-Breaking Career
Rogério Ceni is a Brazilian professional football coach and former player who is in charge of Bahia
Rogério Ceni played his entire professional career for São Paulo FC, where he became a club icon. Over his career, he scored a staggering 131 goals, with a significant portion coming from free-kicks and penalties. His accuracy, power, and ability to curve the ball made him a formidable set-piece specialist.
Ceni’s technique was on par with some of the best midfielders and forwards. He trained extensively on free-kick execution, often practicing alongside the club’s designated takers. His ability to consistently find the back of the net from free-kicks made him a valuable asset beyond his shot-stopping abilities.
José Luis Chilavert: The Goalkeeper with a Flair for Free-Kicks
José Luis Félix Chilavert González is a Paraguayan former professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper for Sportivo Luqueño, Guaraní, San Lorenzo de Almagro, Real Zaragoza, Vélez Sarsfield, RC Strasbourg, Peñarol and the Paraguay national team.
Another name that frequently comes up in discussions about which goalkeeper is rated amongst the best in the world in taking free-kicks is José Luis Chilavert. The Paraguayan shot-stopper was renowned for his set-piece prowess, scoring 67 career goals, including several from free-kicks.
Chilavert’s Impact on the Game
Unlike most goalkeepers, Chilavert was his team’s designated free-kick and penalty taker. His ability to strike the ball with precision and power made him a nightmare for opposition goalkeepers. Chilavert’s most famous free-kick goals came during his time with Vélez Sarsfield, where he won numerous league titles and international accolades.
Modern Goalkeepers Who Can Take Free-Kicks
While Rogério Ceni and José Luis Chilavert are considered pioneers in this rare skill set, modern goalkeepers have also displayed a knack for free-kicks.
Alisson Becker and Ederson Moraes
Álisson Ramsés Becker, better known as Alisson Becker or simply Alisson, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Premier League club Liverpool and the Brazil national team. and Ederson Santana de Moraes, simply known as Ederson, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Premier League club Manchester City and the Brazil national team. After finishing as a runner-up in the Taça de Portugal and Taça da Liga with Rio Ave in 2014, he returned to Benfica in 2015.
Liverpool’s Alisson Becker and Manchester City’s Ederson Moraes are goalkeepers with exceptional ball distribution skills, but they have also shown an ability to take free-kicks in training sessions. While they haven’t scored in competitive matches, their technical ability suggests that they could if given the opportunity.
Hans-Jörg Butt
Hans-Jörg Butt, often simply called Jörg Butt, is a German former footballer who played as a goalkeeper. Known for taking penalty kicks, and for often running into the opposing penalty box in an attempt to find a winner whenever his team were trailing, he scored 26 goals in the Bundesliga.
Hans-Jörg Butt, a German goalkeeper, was known more for his penalty-taking prowess but had the skill to hit a well-placed free-kick. He scored 32 career goals and occasionally took free-kicks when the situation allowed.
The Technique Behind a Goalkeeper Taking Free-Kicks
Taking a free-kick requires precision, technique, and confidence. Goalkeepers who excel in this area must develop their striking ability through dedicated training. Here’s what sets these goalkeepers apart:
- Ball Striking Ability – A powerful and accurate shot is crucial for converting free-kicks.
- Placement Over Power – Many successful free-kick takers focus on precision rather than brute force.
- Training and Dedication – Free-kick taking requires extensive practice, something that few goalkeepers commit to.
- Confidence and Leadership – Goalkeepers who take free-kicks must command their team’s trust and take on the responsibility of leaving their goal temporarily.
The Legacy of Free-Kick Taking Goalkeepers
While the concept of a goalkeeper stepping up for a free-kick remains rare, the impact of those who have done it cannot be understated. Rogério Ceni and José Luis Chilavert have left an indelible mark on football history, inspiring future goalkeepers to develop their technical abilities beyond shot-stopping.
Will We See More Free-Kick Taking Goalkeepers?
With football evolving, modern goalkeepers are becoming more involved in build-up play and ball distribution. While it remains unlikely that we will see an influx of free-kick taking goalkeepers, the possibility remains open for those with the skill and confidence to step up.
Conclusion
When evaluating which goalkeeper is rated amongst the best in the world in taking free-kicks, Rogério Ceni stands as the undisputed leader, followed closely by José Luis Chilavert. Their contributions to football history showcase the potential for goalkeepers to go beyond their traditional roles. As the game evolves, we may witness more goalkeepers honing their free-kick skills, continuing the legacy of these extraordinary players.
If you’re a football enthusiast, the story of free-kick taking goalkeepers is one of the sport’s most fascinating anomalies—proving that, sometimes, the last line of defense can also be the first line of attack.
