Over the course of the history of Vancouver Whitecaps FC, a number of players who have played for the club at one point or another have also represented their country at the FIFA World Cup. As we approach the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, we will feature players of years’ past who made it to soccer’s pinnacle event.
SVEN HABERMANN
Born in Berlin, West Germany, Sven Habermann moved to Canada when he was six-years-old. His 10-year professional career included stops with the Toronto Blizzard in the NASL, and in the CSL with Calgary Kickers and later Vancouver 86ers.
For club
The Canadian goalkeeper played in 21 matches with the CSL champion Vancouver 86ers in 1988, and was a member of the repeat 1989 championship team who set a North American pro sports record by going 46 consecutive matches without defeat.
For country
Habermann made 11 appearances for Canada from 1983 to 1987, including five starts, and was a member of both the 1984 Olympic squad and the 1986 FIFA World Cup team.
FUN FACT: Later in life, Habermann would appear on Dragon’s Den to pitch his Tornado Defense five-in-one pepper spray.
