Lev Yashin.
Updated June 20, 2026 · DynastyDaily Editorial · ● Live Last updated: 2026-06-21T02:18:50Z
Direct answer
Lev Yashin (Soviet Union) — one of the most iconic World Cup goalkeepers. World Cup 4th place 1966; Ballon d'Or 1963 (only goalkeeper ever); Euro 1960.
Profile
| Country | Soviet Union |
| Born | 22 October 1929, Moscow |
| Died | 20 March 1990, Moscow |
| Height | 1.89 m |
| World Cups played | 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970 |
| Major honours | World Cup 4th place 1966; Ballon d'Or 1963 (only goalkeeper ever); Euro 1960 |
| Clubs | Dynamo Moscow (1950-1971) — entire career one club |
The story
Known as "The Black Spider" for his all-black kit and improbable reach, Yashin is the only goalkeeper ever to win the Ballon d'Or (1963). He played four World Cups for the Soviet Union, reaching the semifinals in 1966. FIFA's Golden Glove award has been called the Lev Yashin Award since 2010 in his honour. Estimated to have saved 150 penalty kicks across his career.
Related
See all World Cup goalkeepers, the Golden Glove (Yashin Award) winners, and our top-20 player legends.
Tables and ranking points refresh as matches finish. Standings · Match schedule · World Cup 2026
More World Cup categories
- → Players
- → Statistics
- → Teams
- → Tournaments
- → Player transfers
- → Compare
- → Standings
- → Referees
- → Match schedule
- → FIFA Power Rankings
- → Managers
- → Venues
- → Iconic matches
- → Penalty shootouts
- → World Cup
- → World Cup 2026 — Live