Japan vs Colombia: Substitute Faryd Mondragon breaks record for World Cup's oldest player

Goalkeeper made an appearance against Japan to beat Roger Milla's record

Goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon of Colombia acknowledges the fans (Getty Images)

Colombian goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon has become the oldest ever player to appear in a World Cup after coming on as a late second-half substitute in his side's comfortable win over Japan.

Mondragon's appearance, as his team qualified as group leaders, beat the previous record set by Roger Milla, who last played in the 1994 World Cup in the United States aged 42 years, one month and eight days.

Colombia coach Jose Pekerman sent Mondragon off the bench in the 85th minute of their third and final Group C match against Japan with the south American team having already qualified for the last 16 and leading Japan 3-1.

The Colombia-dominated crowd erupted as Mondragon ran on to the pitch with tears streaming down his face and he embraced starting keeper David Ospina warmly as he left the pitch.

Mondragon was in Colombia's World Cup squads in 1994 and 1998, the last time the Andean country was in the finals when he started all three games before the team were eliminated at the group stage.