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Febrero 02, 2005
Bolivia's New Coach
The Bolivian Football Federation picked their third coach since late 2003, to salvage the rest of the World Cup qualifying schedule. Ovidio Messa has a tall task ahead of him, which consists largely of crawling out of the cellar. Even though Bolivia currently sits last with 10 points from 11 games (3 points for a win, 1 point for a tie), it is only four points behind the fifth World Cup slot. The fifth place team would play a play-off with the winner of the Oceania region, most likely Australia or New Zealand.
Bolivia's next match is against Argentina in La Paz, some time in March.
Posted by eduardo at Febrero 2, 2005 02:40 PM
Comments
Here we go again. Ever time I speak about this topic I get, let's say, very excited! Once again, they decide to go back to someone who has proven to be "not" the right person to lead the team. Ovidio Mesa has had his glory days as player, but non as trainer.
Why don't they just look for some unknown, well schooled, person to head the team. And for god's sake, enclose the players in a camp far away of civilization, so they forget about booz and women, and they can finally concentrate on playing.
Like I said, just a bit, excited.
Posted by: MB at Febrero 3, 2005 04:45 AM
And for god's sake, enclose the players in a camp far away of civilization, so they forget about booz and women, and they can finally concentrate on playing. - AlwaysBolivia on "Bolivian Football"
I agree. What is it with these kids? Arce and that talented defender got kicked off the team for drinking and missed the U-20 competition in Colombia. Which as it turns out, though Bolivia only got 1 pt. for a draw with Venezuela, could have easily "Possibly" qualified for the next round. Would they have made it to the Netherlands? Probrably not. But still. Was it with these kids. Is it the equivalent of "I'm on the national team, lets get chicks?" That's no way to improve your career, I say.
Posted by: Dr. Octagon at Febrero 3, 2005 11:32 AM
In Bolivia, playing and starring in football is one of the ways to "make it". I believe at one point, Jose Alfredo Castillo was making $20,000/month. Even in Bolivia, the top players make at least $5,000/month. They don't know how to handle success or recognition.
Send the players abroad where there is much more at stake. I doubt that Ronald Raldes at Rosario Central is partying much, as there is much more at stake and others who want his spot in the starting lineup.
Posted by: eduardo at Febrero 3, 2005 12:49 PM