A new fan-made documentary on José Luis Félix Chilavert, widely regarded as one of Paraguay’s most iconic footballers, has begun to draw attention on social media. Produced by Paraguayan football fan Diego Benítez and released on YouTube, the documentary stands out for its detailed exploration of Chilavert’s extraordinary career and complex personality. Titled Chilavert, Number 1, the film revisits the life and legacy of the former goalkeeper, blending sporting achievements with personal anecdotes and cultural impact.
Chilavert first rose to prominence as a goalkeeper capable of both spectacular saves and scoring goals. By regularly scoring from set pieces, he revolutionised a position traditionally limited to defensive duties. Over a professional career spanning 24 years, he scored 62 goals. That established him not only as a reliable shot-stopper but also as a genuine attacking threat. His career began in Paraguay before gaining worldwide recognition in Argentina, with shorter spells in Spain, France and Uruguay.
From Luque to the world stage
Born in Luque, near Asunción, in 1965, Chilavert began his professional career at Sportivo Luqueño at just 15 years old. From an early age, his strong personality and leadership qualities were evident. International recognition arrived during his time in Argentina, particularly after joining Vélez Sarsfield in 1992. With the club, he achieved historic success, winning the Copa Libertadores and the Intercontinental Cup in 1994.
The documentary highlights numerous anecdotes from his time at Vélez. Many of them closely tied to his intimidating presence and unshakeable confidence. During the Intercontinental Cup final against AC Milan, fear was widespread among the squad, but not for Chilavert. His ability to deliver in decisive moments, both by saving penalties and scoring goals, earned him international fame and cemented his reputation as one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation. Recognition followed, including multiple FIFA accolades throughout the mid-1990s.
The film also charts his rise with the Paraguayan national team, underlining his leadership in major international tournaments. During the 1998 World Cup in France, Chilavert made history as one of the first goalkeepers to take, and nearly score, a direct free kick at the tournament. Following a fiercely contested match against the host nation, he famously declared: “Now Frenchmen know where Paraguay is,”. Becoming a moment remembered both for its symbolism and defiance.
Records and free kicks
Chilavert was never a quiet figure, either on or off the pitch. Despite his controversial personality, he broke numerous records that redefined what was possible for a goalkeeper. The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) named him the world’s best goalkeeper three times: in 1995, 1997 and 1998.
His reputation as a goal-scoring goalkeeper began at Vélez. There, he became one of the first players in his position to regularly take free kicks and penalties. In 1994, he became the first goalkeeper to score directly from a free kick. Five years later, he achieved an unprecedented feat by scoring a hat-trick against Ferrocarril Oeste, Vélez’s fiercest rivals. This achievement is still unmatched by any other goalkeeper.
Two of his most memorable free kicks came against the same opponent: Germán “El Mono” Burgos, then goalkeeper for River Plate and the Argentine national team. One goal, scored from midfield with Vélez, stunned spectators. Another, scored for Paraguay at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium, became one of the most celebrated goals in the country’s football history.
Argentine commentators famously debated whether the distance was too great moments before Chilavert struck the ball. One says “It is a free kick for Chilavert”. The other one says “Chilavert is a man that can put anyone to shame, but I think is too far”. And indeed, Chilavert not only silenced the stadium, but put him to shame and scored one of his most remembered goals in his career. Both episodes are vividly revisited in the documentary.
José Luis Chilavert: A complex figure on and off the pitch
Beyond sporting achievements, the documentary explores Chilavert’s fiery temperament and enduring controversies. Known for his outspoken views, he consistently attracted attention away from the pitch as well. His confrontational nature earned admiration from many supporters, while simultaneously generating disputes with referees, football officials and commentators throughout his career and after his retirement in 2004.
The film also addresses his post-football life, including his transition into public debate and politics. Chilavert has pursued political ambitions in Paraguay. Including a presidential bid in 2023 and intentions to run in the 2026 mayoral elections. These aspirations reflect his continued desire to remain influential within national life, extending his presence beyond sport.
Chilavert’s legacy
For many Paraguayans, Chilavert’s story remains inseparable from the nation’s football identity. He continues to be one of the country’s most recognisable sporting figures. Chilavert is a player whose success at club and international level showcased Paraguayan talent on the global stage. His eight goals for the national team remain an extraordinary record for a goalkeeper and form a central part of the legacy highlighted by the documentary.
By combining triumph, controversy and personal conviction, Chilavert, Number 1 offers a nuanced portrait of a figure who permanently altered the role of the goalkeeper. More than a footballer, José Luis Chilavert emerges as a cultural and sporting symbol whose influence extends far beyond the penalty area. For football fans and general audiences alike, the documentary provides a compelling reflection on identity, legacy and the lasting impact of a man who refused to conform to expectations.
