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Eduardo Berizzo resigned this Thursday from his position as Chile’s national coach, after a goalless draw at home against Paraguay, in a match on the fifth day of the 2026 Qualifiers.
In a surprising turn of events, Eduardo Berizzo announced his resignation as Chile’s national coach after the goalless draw at home against Paraguay on the fifth day of the South American Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine strategist, visibly affected, appeared before the journalists in a brief statement and without allowing questions. In the midst of the questions, the Argentine expressed his desire to leave the position to the president of the Federation, recognizing that the results did not live up to expectations. “I would like to thank everyone who has worked with me,” he said.
Despite the difficult situation, Berizzo showed optimism regarding Chile’s chances of qualifying, stating that the chances still exist and are intact. “I hope the weather clears up so Chile can qualify. “It has been an honor to lead the Chilean team,” concluded the Argentine, leaving ‘La Roja’ at a critical moment four days before a crucial meeting with Ecuador in Quito.
Given this unexpected resignation, the Chilean Football Federation is searching for a new technical director. The names of possible successors are already on the table, and some stand out above others.
The coaching candidates:
Gustavo Quinteros: the current Colo Colo coach would be Pablo Milad’s favorite, due to his recognition in the local environment and his experience in national teams. His contract with Colo Colo ends at the end of this season.Ricardo Gareca: Former Peru coach, Gareca is an option that had already been considered before Berizzo’s arrival. His experience in qualification processes and international competitions positions him as a strong candidate. José Néstor Pekerman: the Argentine, who recently resigned from the Venezuelan bank, has the experience of having taken Colombia to two World Cup events consecutively. . His knowledge and background could be a valuable asset for La Roja. Nicolás Córdova: heading the projects of the minor teams, Córdova is seen as a strong option to be Berizzo’s replacement. For now, he has become the interim coach with a view to the next confrontation against Ecuador. Jaime García: supported by the fans of ‘La Roja’, García stands out for his outstanding campaign with Ñublense, leading them to compete in the Copa Libertadores for first time in its history. Ricardo Gareca is without a team after leaving Vélez. (Photo: AFP)
Berizzo’s numbers as coach of Chile
Berizzo assumed the helm of ‘La Roja’ in May 2022, and 18 months later he leaves it with a very poor statistic: a single official victory, 1-0 against Peru, which is bottom in the World Cup Qualifiers, two draws and two defeats.
Along with the friendlies and the Kirin Cup, in total Berizzo directed fourteen games, with four victories – in friendlies with Paraguay, Cuba and the Dominican Republic -, four draws and six losses, 15 goals scored and 13 conceded.
How is Chile doing in the 2026 Qualifiers standings?
Chile only drew goalless with Paraguay and wasted an opportunity to add a victory on the way to the World Cup. With parity against the Guaraníes, ‘La Roja’ remains outside the classification zone, in eighth place with five points.
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2023-11-17 18:42:10#Chile #coach #resignation #Berizzo #candidates #bench #Nico #Córdova #interim #FOOTBALLINTERNATIONAL
