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Rene HiguitaFormer Colombian footballer, goalkeeper
Date of Birth: 27.08.1966
Country:  Colombia |
Content:
- José René Higuita Zapata: The Eccentric Colombian Goalkeeper
- Club Career
- International Career
- The 'Scorpion Kick'
- Eccentric Playstyle
- 1990 World Cup Blunder
- Coaching Career
- Personal Life
- Kidnapping Controversy
- Later Life
José René Higuita Zapata: The Eccentric Colombian Goalkeeper
Early LifeJosé René Higuita Zapata, known as 'El Loco' ('The Madman'), was born on August 28, 1966, in Medellín, Colombia. He was raised in a humble neighborhood and began playing soccer at a young age.
Club Career
Higuita spent the majority of his club career with Atlético Nacional, a Colombian team based in Medellín. His exceptional skills helped lead the club to several Colombian League titles, a Copa Libertadores triumph, and a Copa Interamericana championship. He also had brief stints with other teams, but rarely stayed anywhere for more than a year.
International Career
Higuita made his international debut for the Colombian national team in 1987 and went on to represent his country for 12 years, appearing in 68 matches and scoring an impressive eight goals. His penalty-saving abilities and unorthodox style of play made him a memorable figure in international football.
The 'Scorpion Kick'
Higuita's most famous moment came in September 1995, when he performed an acrobatic "Scorpion Kick" save against England in a friendly match. While attempting to block a shot from Jamie Redknapp, he leaped backwards and flicked the ball over his head with his heels. This save was later ranked 94th in Channel 4's "100 Greatest Sporting Moments of 2002."
Eccentric Playstyle
Higuita was known for his eccentric and risky style of play. He frequently ventured outside the penalty area, attempting to create scoring opportunities. While this sometimes led to spectacular goals, it also cost him dearly at times.
1990 World Cup Blunder
In the 1990 World Cup, Higuita's reckless play cost Colombia a place in the quarterfinals. He left his goal and attempted to dribble past Cameroon's Roger Milla, only to lose the ball and concede a goal. This mistake earned him the nickname "El Loco."
Coaching Career
Higuita has expressed his desire to coach the Colombian national team. He became manager of Real Valladolid in December 2008 and later joined Al Nassr FC in January 2012.
Personal Life
Higuita has been married to Magnolia and has two children, Andrés and Pamela. He also has a daughter, Cindy Carolina, from a previous relationship.
Kidnapping Controversy
In 1993, Higuita was arrested for his involvement in a kidnapping plot. He acted as a go-between for drug cartels and received $64,000 for his role. This led to his imprisonment for seven months, during which he missed the 1994 FIFA World Cup. While charges were never formally filed, Higuita has since admitted that he was unaware of how serious the offense was.
Later Life
Higuita participated in the reality show "La isla de los famosos: Una aventura pirata" in 2005. He also underwent plastic surgery that significantly altered his appearance. His future plans are unknown, but he has expressed an interest in politics.
