Van der Sar turns 49: Top three saves by the Dutch goalkeeper

Edwin Van der Sar retired from football in 2011, and currently at Ajax as the chief executive officer. As the Dutchman will celebrate his 49th birthday on October 29, let us look at some of the best games of his career.

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1. Edwin Van der Sar vs Chelsea (Luzhniki Stadium 2008)

Van der Sar's dive to save Nicolas Anelka’s penalty during the Champions League final is undoubtedly one of the Dutchman's finest saves for United. His save gave manager Sir Alex his second Champions League title win. Though not his best performance, the match-winning save for Manchester United is one the most memorable saves of his career. In an interview with a British publication, even Van der Sar admitted that he considers the save as his career's best moment.

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2.  Edwin Van der Sar vs Barcelona (Wembley Stadium 2011)

Second on the list is another Champions League final, this time against Barcelona on May 28, 2011. Even though United lost, Van der Sar did his best during the game, keeping stalwarts like Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Lionel Messi at bay. As the Dutch goalkeeper retired after the final, his saves definitely deserve a mention. 

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3. Edwin Van der Sar vs Liverpool (Anfield 2007)

Van der Sar's save to Peter Crouch's goal is still fresh in every United fans' memory. The Premier League match against Liverpool took place at Anfield on March 3, 2007. The Flying Dutchman skilfully saved Crouch's header, and Manchester United won the match 1-0.

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