Skip to content

Paraguay appoint Pelusso

Image: Gerardo Pelusso: Has taken over as coach of the Paraguay national team

Paraguay have appointed Uruguayan Gerardo Pelusso as coach following the sacking of Francisco Arce.

Uruguayan takes over 2010 World Cup quarter-finalists

Paraguay have appointed Uruguayan Gerardo Pelusso as coach following the sacking of Francisco Arce. After reaching the World Cup quarter-finals in 2010, Paraguay are in danger of failing to qualify for the 2014 tournament in Brazil. Arce was sacked after his team plummeted to one place from bottom of the South American qualifying group. Pelusso takes over after leaving his post in charge of Paraguayan first division side Olimpia. Paraguayan Football Association (APF) president Juan Angel Napout says the 58-year-old was chosen because of his experience in local football.

Best choice

He told Primero de Marzo radio station: "We wanted a coach who was working in the domestic game. I think he knows the scene and was the only candidate we had. "We're convinced this was the best choice and that we can go out to fight for our qualification. He'll decide who he works with, he's very enthusiastic with this opportunity and we are in being able to count on him." Pelusso faces a tough start, with a critical game away to Argentina looming on September 7th before Paraguay meet Venezuela four days later. His debut, though, will be an away friendly against China on August 15th. The Uruguayan steered Olimpia to the Paraguayan league title last year and has coached in five different South American countries, including his homeland.

Around Sky