Tim Howard, Guillermo Ochoa snubbed from World Cup Golden Glove list
By Josh Sanchez
On Friday afternoon, FIFA announced the finalists for the World Cup Golden Glove award which goes to the most outstanding goalkeeper in the tournament. While only three names can be on the list, there are two glaring omissions.
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Both Tim Howard of the United States, who set a World Cup record against Belgium with 16 saves, and Guillermo Ochoa of Mexico, who was the only goalkeeper to shut out Brazil, were snubbed from the list of finalists.
There was at least one CONCACAF goalie to get the honor, however, in Costa Rica’s Keylor Navas.
With only three players on the list of finalists, it is hard not to admit at least one deserving name, but it is surprising that neither Howard or Ochoa are being recognized for their efforts.
After all, both goalies earned Man of the Match honors in their team’s final games despite being eliminated from the tournament.
Here are the finalists for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Golden Glove award, via FIFA.com:
"Keylor Navas (CRC)The Levante stopper was arguably Costa Rica’s best player at Brazil 2014, including a match-winning display in the Round of 16 tie against Greece. Making 21 saves in Los Ticos’ five games, he was awarded the Budweiser Man of the Match Award on three occasions. At 26-years-old the best years of his career are firmly ahead of him.Manuel Neuer (GER)The Germany keeper has played in all of the Nationalelf’s six games so far, making 25 saves and completing 202 passes. He’s kept three clean sheets and been a commanding presence for Joachim Low’s side so far. After winning a host of domestic honours, the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup, the FIFA World Cup and the Golden Glove is now in his sights.Sergio Romero (ARG)Penalty shoot-out saves from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneidjer sent La Albiceleste into the final, capping a fine tournament for the 27-year-old so far. The Monaco keeper has kept four clean sheets, making 15 saves in Brazil 2014 so far. Brought into international football by Diego Maradona, he has been Argentina’s first choice keeper for five years."
Who do you think will come away with the honor? Sound off in the comments section below with your thoughts and predictions.
Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the next few weeks for the latest news and results from the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.