Iker Casillas Set To Win 100th Cap For Spain Against Argentina

Iker Casillas is often remembered for saving Real Madrid's skin, but the 28-year-old 'keeper has also performed heroics in his 99 appearances for the Spanish national side.

Casillas is now set to collect his 100th cap for Spain against Argentina tonight, becoming only the third player in the country's history to do so. Only Raul, on 104 caps, and Andoni Zubizarreta, on 126, now stand ahead of the shot-stopper.

'San Iker' made his debut for la Seleccion on June 3, 2000 in a friendly match against Sweden at the age of just 19 years and 14 days. Following a freak injury to Santiago Canizares, where he dropped a bottle of aftershave on his foot, Casillas established himself as Spain's first choice 'keeper at the 2002 World Cup and hasn't looked back since.

Over the course of his career with la Furia Roja, he has even managed to bring Real Madrid fans together with Barcelona supporters as they both eulogise their international hero.

His performances for both club and country have brought him praise from all around the globe. After making an incredible save from Diego Perotti this season against Sevilla, Rojiblancos 'keeper Andres Palop was in awe of his opposite number.

"I think it will be regarded as the best save of the year and that it will be remembered for a long time because it showcased power, strength, great reaction and resolution."

Gordon Banks, who made arguably the greatest save when he denied Pele during Brazil's World Cup match against England in 1970, also lauded 'San Iker'.

"Casillas' reflexes are incredible. If he continues to play this well he will become one of the best goalkeepers in the history of the game."

The Spanish 'keeper will have his work cut out tonight when he faces an Argentina attack featuring the likes of Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuain. But the Vicente Calderon, home of rivals Atletico Madrid, will certainly rise as one to pay tribute to one of the world's greatest goalkeepers.

Anthony Wright, Goal.com