Happy birthday to Damián Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez! Born on 2 September 1992, the towering Argentine goalkeeper has become legendary for his clutch performances in Argentina’s most pressure-filled matches .
In honor of his special day, here’s a look at the top ten matches where Dibu Martínez rose and silenced the stakes for Argentina:
1. 2022 FIFA World Cup Final vs France
Martínez produced perhaps his most iconic moment, pulling off a miraculous save in the 121st minute against Randal Kolo Muani—an xG chance typically destined for the net—and then anchoring the penalty shootout. He stopped Kingsley Coman and forced Tchouaméni off-target, delivering Argentina their first World Cup since 1986 and earning the Golden Glove .
> “This is the Man of the Match… Without this guy at that moment Argentina is gone for good.” — Reddit fan reaction
2. 2022 World Cup Quarterfinal vs Netherlands
Martínez’s heroics began earlier when he made two critical penalty saves in the quarterfinal shootout, securing Argentina’s path to the semifinals .
3. 2021 Copa América Semifinal vs Colombia
In a dramatic shootout, Dibu pulled off three sensational saves to send Argentina to the final—then ultimately ending a 28-year continental trophy drought .
4. 2024 Copa América Quarterfinal vs Ecuador
With Lionel Messi embarrassingly hitting the first penalty against the bar, Martínez kept Argentina alive, saving two penalties (Mena and Minda), keeping his perfect shootout record intact, and guiding the team to the semis .
5. 2024 Copa América Final vs Colombia
Dibu was named the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper. His calm presence under pressure helped Argentina clinch their 16th Copa América title, conceding just one goal in the entire tournament .
6. 2021 Copa América Final vs Brazil
Earlier in the same tournament, Martínez played a key role—especially defensively and psychologically—to help Argentina beat their fierce rivals in the final and become South American champions .
7. 2022 Finalissima vs Italy
Building on Argentina’s confidence, Dibu helped the team secure the Finalissima trophy — a thrilling intercontinental victory that further established his status as a winner .
8. 2024 World Cup Qualifier vs Brazil (home)
Even in a match dominated by Argentina—a fiery 4-1 win—Martínez entertained fans with keepy-ups in his box, reflecting both his confidence and charisma on the field .
9. 2024 Copa América (overall)
Throughout the tournament, Martínez was exceptional: 32 clean sheets in 45 games, conceding just 17 goals, 75 saves, and leading Argentina through dominant performances to another continental triumph .
10. Penalty Shootout Record & Persona
Across all major tournaments, Martínez has maintained an unbeaten penalty shootout record—winning all four shootouts he’s played for Argentina (vs. Colombia, Ecuador, Netherlands, France). His flamboyant style and psychological edge (even when new rules curtailed his antics) have made him one of the most formidable goalkeepers in this arena .
Profile: Dibu’s Clutch Legacy
Shootout specialist: Never lost a penalty shootout with Argentina.
Clutch performer: Delivers when the game is on the line—be it finals or knockout drama.
Tournament machine: Key figure in four consecutive titles—2021 Copa América, 2022 Finalissima, 2022 World Cup, and 2024 Copa América .
Personality magnet: A flamboyant, passionate presence who blends performance with showmanship, from keepy-ups to dance celebrations and mind games (some later regulated) .
In Conclusion
On his birthday, Dibu Martínez stands as a symbol of Argentine resilience and flair—a goalkeeper who turns penalty drama into legend, often single-handedly shifting momentum and history on his shoulders.
Would you like a video highlight reel featuring these epic saves or a deeper dive into one of these matches?
