Justo Villar Paraguayan footballer, goalkeeper Date of Birth: 30.06.1977 Country: Paraguay

1. Justo Villar: A Renowned Paraguayan Goalkeeper
2. Ascension to First-Choice Goalkeeper
3. International Success and Recognition
4. World Cup and Copa América Appearances
5. Later Career

Justo Villar: A Renowned Paraguayan Goalkeeper

Justo Villar, a legendary Paraguayan goalkeeper, began his professional career with Sol de América in 1996. In 1999, he received his first national team call-up.

Ascension to First-Choice Goalkeeper

With the legendary José Luis Chilavert declining to participate in the 1999 Copa América, Villar stepped up as Paraguay's starting goalkeeper. He played in all four matches of the tournament, including the quarter-final. In 2002, Chilavert's disqualification from the FIFA World Cup opened the door for Villar to play a supporting role behind Ricardo Tavarelli.

International Success and Recognition

Following Chilavert's international retirement, Villar became Paraguay's undisputed number one. In 2004, he joined Newell's Old Boys in Argentina and had an exceptional season, winning the Apertura championship and becoming the league's best goalkeeper. Remarkably, he also became Paraguay's Player of the Year, an honor that Chilavert never achieved.

World Cup and Copa América Appearances

Villar played as Paraguay's starting goalkeeper in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, but sustained an injury early in the opening match against England. He was named first-choice goalkeeper again for the 2010 World Cup, reaching the quarterfinals with Paraguay. In the 2011 Copa América, Villar was named the tournament's Best Goalkeeper as Paraguay finished as runners-up.

Later Career

After the 2011 Copa América, Villar moved to Real Valladolid in Spain. In 2008, he joined Estudiantes in Argentina. He remains a key player for the Paraguayan national team and serves as captain in certain matches when usual captain Denis Caniza is absent.