SANTIAGO, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chile manager Eduardo Berizzo announced his resignation on Thursday after his team's goalless home draw against Paraguay in their FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The 54-year-old Argentine said he hoped his departure would ease tension within Chile's squad caused by a poor run of results.
"I have expressed my desire to step down to the president [Pablo Milad] of the federation," Berizzo said in a brief statement to journalists after the match.
"The results have not been as expected and it is worth recognizing it. I would like to thank everyone who has worked with me."
Thursday's draw at Estadio Monumental leaves Chile eighth in South America's 10-team World Cup qualifying group with just one win from five games.
The top six teams at the end of the qualifying tournament will earn an automatic berth at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The seventh-ranked side will advance to an intercontinental playoff.
"I think the chances of qualifying exist, they are intact," Berizzo said. "I hope the situation improves so that Chile can qualify. It has been an honor to lead this team."
Berizzo, who was Paraguay's national team coach from 2019 to 2021, led Chile to four wins, three draws and seven defeats following his appointment in May 2022. ■
