Javier Saviola

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Saviola starred in the 2001 edition of the FIFA U-20 World Cup, held in Argentina. He was top scorer and was voted player of the tournament, as the national team won the competition; with 11 goals in seven games, he became the record goal-scorer in the tournament's history. He scored the second goal in the victory 3–0 over Ghana in the final. Three years later, Saviola played in the 2004 Olympic Games and won the gold medal. Under coach Marcelo Bielsa he was given few playing opportunities for the senior team but, after the former's resignation in 2004, new manager José Pékerman, who also worked with him at youth level, turned the tide in the player's favour; he was also a member of the squads that reached final of the 2004 Copa América and the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup, netting three times in the former tournament and one in the latter. Saviola was called up to represent Argentina at the 2006 World Cup – Luciano Figueroa and Luciano Galletti were also in contention for a place on the roster, but his excellent form for Sevilla secured his place in the squad. He scored against Ivory Coast in the country's opening game, and made two assists in the 6–0 victory over Serbia and Montenegro also in the group phase. Saviola retired from international football on 5 December 2009, although not yet 28.

In Their Own Story

The roar of the stadium in Germany faded into a muffled hum as Javier Saviola received the ball just outside the box. The defender lunged, but Saviola was already gone, feinting left before cutting inside with deceptive ease. In a split second, he struck the ball with his weaker foot, sending it curling past the keeper's outstretched hand and into the top corner. The net rippled, and the Argentine crowd erupted, knowing another moment of magic had been etched into World Cup history.

Reader's Guide

Saviola's most significant accolade in the realm of international football was his contribution to Argentina's Copa América triumphs, where he demonstrated his clutch performance under pressure. While he did not win a FIFA World Cup title, his individual performances, particularly scoring against Serbia and Montenegro in 2006, highlighted his status as a tournament standout. At the club level, Saviola achieved immense success with FC Barcelona, winning the UEFA Champions League in 2006. This victory marked the pinnacle of his European career, showcasing his ability to perform on the biggest stage alongside legends like Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o. His versatility allowed him to adapt to various tactical systems throughout his long career. His legacy is further defined by his record-breaking youth performances. Saviola holds the distinction of being one of the youngest players to score in a European Cup/Champions League match for Barcelona, a feat that announced his arrival as a global superstar before he had even turned 20.

Did You Know?

• Saviola was named as the youngest player on Pelé's FIFA 100 list of the 125 greatest living footballers in 2004.
• He scored 11 goals in seven games at the 2001 FIFA U-20 World Cup, becoming the record goal-scorer in the tournament's history.
• Saviola won a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics in Athens.
• He retired from international football on 5 December 2009, before turning 28.
• Saviola scored against Ivory Coast in Argentina's opening game of the 2006 World Cup.