Football
Associated Press 6y

Colombia coach Jose Pekerman steps aside after national team contract expires

BOGOTA, Colombia -- Colombia coach Jose Pekerman let his contract run out after six years and two World Cups with the team.

Pekerman's deal ended last Friday, and the Argentine's decision not to extend the contract was confirmed by Colombia Football Federation president Ramon Jesurun on Tuesday.

Arturo Reyes was appointed as interim coach for friendlies on Friday against Venezuela then on Tuesday against Argentina. Both games are in the United States.

Pekerman led Colombia to their first World Cup in 16 years, in 2014 in Brazil, and the team reached the quarterfinals.

He qualified Colombia again for the World Cup in Russia, where they were knocked out in the round of 16 by England in a penalty shootout.

Jesurun said last week he hoped the 69-year-old Pekerman would lead the team's effort to qualify for the Qatar World Cup in 2022.

"My Colombian daughter must be sad, but I leave with happiness for having people's support," Pekerman said after meeting with the federation.

"There has been a lot of damage to Colombia with all these rumors and conjectures. I said it when I arrived, we need to work together, support the national team to achieve great things.

"There is a hard path that has been walked and we need to keep up the great work."

Pekerman had a 43-18-17 record with Colombia in all competitions  and his 78 matches as head coach are the second most in the country's national team history

James Rodriguez paid tribute to Pekerman's work for Colombia in a post on Twitter.

"I can only thank for all that you gave to Colombia, you gave us the faith back and the hope of being the best," he wrote. "You have made me believe that I am better than I thought. With your advice I grew to all levels. I wish you the best for what is coming for you, Jose. You will always be my best teacher."

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