Mexico’s Rafael Marquez equals record after appearing in fifth World Cup with win over champions Germany
Former Barcelona defender Marquez started in the 1-0 win over Germany on Sunday
RAFAEL MARQUEZ equalled the record of World Cup appearances when he came on for Mexico in their 1-0 shock win over Germany.
Former Barcelona defender Marquez ensured he drew level with the record after coming on in his fifth World Cup on Sunday.
The 39-year-old replaced Andres Guardado in the 74th minute in the Luzhniki Stadium.
He is now level with fellow Mexican Antonio Carbajal and Germany legend Lothar Matthäus on five World Cup appearances.
Marquez's first time to the tournament came in 2002 in South Korea when Mexico were eliminated by the United States at the last-16 stage.
In fact, Mexico have reached and gone out in the round of 16 at the last six tournaments.
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Marquez made his debut for the national team in 1997 but didn't make the squad to France.
There is a chance the veteran may retire from football at the end of the World Cup as he is currently unattached to any club.
He left Mexican club Atlas in April after two-and-a-half years back at the club where he began his career in 1996.
Marquez became a household name after impressing at Monaco and then Barcelona from 2003 to 2010, when he won four La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues.
