Soccer: Maldini breaks Seeler World Cup appearance record

OITA, Japan - Italy captain Paolo Maldini has broken the record for the most full 90 minute appearances in World Cup finals games.

Maldini played his 22nd consecutive World Cup match in Italy's 1-1 draw with Mexico on Thursday, breaking Uwe Seeler's record of 21 games set in the 1960's and 70's for West Germany.

Should Italy reach the last four and Maldini feature in all games, including either the final or the third-place play off, he would also break the record for World Cup finals appearances set by Germany's Lothar Matthaeus who played in 25 games.

Maldini is already Italy's most capped player with 125 appearances for his country.

The Italy captain is playing in his fourth World Cup finals.

- REUTERS

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