Neuer both left reporters speechless and matched Casillas' record

Manuel Neuer gave a pointed reply to reporters following the victory over Pafos and simultaneously matched the record for the most Champions League wins held by Casillas.

Bayern Munich secured a 5-1 victory away at Pafos in the Champions League qualifying round, marking a significant milestone for goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. At 39 years old, he not only demonstrated his composure in goal but also equaled Iker Casillas' legendary record of 101 wins in the Champions League. This achievement cements the German goalkeeper’s status as one of the greatest shot-stoppers in European football history.

However, Bayern’s triumph wasn’t completely flawless as Mislav Oršić unexpectedly lit up the home side’s moment. The Croatian midfielder unleashed a long-range strike from about 30 meters, sending the ball sharply into the top corner, leaving Neuer rooted to the spot. This stunning goal became a focal point for reporters after the match, and Neuer turned the interview into an entertaining highlight.

When asked if the shot was "unstoppable," Neuer replied succinctly: "Yes, it was."The interviewer then questioned whether his reaction was delayed, to which the Bayern keeper immediately fired back: "No. Have you ever been a goalkeeper?"When the reporter admitted he had not, Neuer gave a wry smile and said: "That’s unfortunate. The ball initially went straight, then changed direction. I was anticipating the original path but realized too late that it veered to the right. If you had played, you’d understand what I mean. That’s my answer."

Neuer’s witty yet sharp comeback reflected the calmness of an experienced goalkeeper. The unexpected goal did not affect his mood on this special day — his 152nd Champions League appearance, placing him among the top five players with the most appearances in the competition’s history. Notably, with this win, he officially matched Casillas’ record of 101 victories, the legendary keeper who spent his career at Real Madrid and Porto and won three Champions League titles in 2000, 2002, and 2014.

Since joining Bayern in 2011, Neuer has helped the "Red Giants" claim two Champions League titles in 2013 and 2020. Over more than a decade guarding the goal for Germany’s top club, he has proven his endurance, consistency, and elite talent. Matching Casillas’ record is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the legacy Neuer is building in Europe’s premier club competition.

Given his current form and rare consistency at 39, fans can confidently expect Neuer to soon surpass Casillas and become the goalkeeper with the most wins in Champions League history. Will he claim sole ownership of this record and elevate his legacy further in the near future?