Thomas Ravelli, the Swedish national team goalkeeper who starred at World Cup ’94, has signed a multi-year contract with MLS, Deputy Commissioner Sunil Gulati announced today. The 38-year-old Ravelli, who led Sweden to a third-place finish at the ’94 World Cup, has earned 143 caps with Sweden’s national team — the highest number on record among national team goalkeepers throughout the world. Only Saudi Arabian forward Majed Abdullah, with 147 caps, has more national team appearances than Ravelli. “Thomas Ravelli is a world-class goalkeeper still playing at the highest level who will elevate the level of play of any MLS team,” Gulati said. “He is considered one of the game’s true professionals and is highly respected among the world soccer community.” Ravelli joins MLS after spending the last 21 years playing in Sweden’s first division, winning two championships with Oester IF and another six with IFK Gothenburg, his club since 1989. He played in Gothenburg’s 2-1 Champions League win over Turkish club Besiktas on Nov. 5. “I am very excited to be joining Major League Soccer,” Ravelli said via telephone from Gothenburg, Sweden following last night’s victory. “This is a big step for me and my family. MLS is quickly developing into a strong league, and I hope my experience can lend some help to my future MLS team Ravelli made his debut for Sweden at the age of 22 on February 27, 1981 against Finland. He has played in two World Cups (1990 and 1994) and is best known for his competitive nature and ability to make big saves. Many American soccer fans remember his two penalty-kick saves against Romania at 1994 that sent Sweden into the semifinals against Brazil. “I really enjoyed all of the friendly people I met in the United States when I was there in 1994,” Ravelli added. “America has a lot of people from all backgrounds – a great ethnic mix. I am looking forward to this new adventure for me and my family.” Ravelli and his Gothenburg teammates will be traveling to the United States December 14-20. MLS is looking into the possibility of scheduling an exhibition game between Gothenburg and either the Miami Fusion or Tampa Bay Mutiny in mid-December. MLS has received a great deal of interest in Ravelli from many of the league’s 12 teams. A decision regarding where he will play in 1998 is expected by the end of November.