Chile’s recent renaissance has been capped by a return to the finals following a 12-year absence.
In the international wilderness since France 1998, when Marcelo Salas and Ivan Zamorano showcased their consummate finishing skills, La Roja believe they have the resources to emulate their illustrious predecessors and advance beyond the group phase.
The road to South Africa
Marcelo Bielsa’s side finished second in the continental qualifying group, just one point behind Brazil. That performance, their best since the group format was introduced, was rounded off in style with a spectacular 4-2 win in Colombia in October, a result that rubber-stamped their return to the world elite with one game remaining.
Star players
Leading the line with distinction are Matias Fernandez, Alexis Sanchez and Humberto Suazo who form part of a new breed of Chilean footballer anxious to build reputations abroad. The more experienced Suazo, meanwhile, is a lethal finisher with a happy knack for appearing in the right place at the right time.
The coach
Bielsa was the man in charge of Argentina’s ill-fated bid for glory at Korea/Japan 2002. While memories of La Albiceleste’s shock first-round exit in the Orient linger, Bielsa has given himself a shot at redemption by engineering Chile’s unlikely revival.
Facts
- Chile will be taking part in the World Cup finals for the eighth time at South Africa 2010.
- Their best performance to date came when they hosted the tournament in 1962 and finished third. — Fifa