Keepers are sweepers

Manuel Neuer gave a masterclass for Germany against Algeria in what is expected of the modern-day goalkeeper. German coach Löw even called him his team's ‘libero' and he was a very aggressive one: he boldly came off his line, rushing outside his area to make tackles and even a diving header to thwart the quicksilver Algerians, who were trying to expose Germany's high line (see graphic, right). For Neuer it was not just about his defensive qualities but also his aggressive, quick distribution, a key attribute for a modern goalkeeper. The accuracy of his long kicking was extraordinary, as highlighted when he picked out André Schürrle, leaving him one-on-one with an Algerian defender with an early release of the ball. Neuer is not alone. France's Hugo Lloris is also bold although he has actually been more disciplined during this World Cup.