Bolivia has a history of horrible sub-20 and sub-17 presentations because of corrupt practices and inner dealings. Of all famous ex-players to head the sub-20, I thought Melgar would be the one most innoculated against this. The man has been in championship teams for Boca and River and gone to the World Cup. It's been a time since I've been in Bolivia so I didn't really pay attention to the team he was forming and when he originally lost to Brazil 7-0 I took it philosophically. I mean if you aren't good enough you aren't good enough. I figured Melgar had had a decent preparation time and i trusted him to pick the best players. However, according to these two articles: http://www.bolivia.com/noticias/AutoNoticias/DetalleNoticia10931.asp http://opinion-bo.com/20030110/de01.htm Melgar has been completely blind to many talented youngsters. Here's the proof: (1) The president of Bolivar challenged Melgar to play his "Bolivian" sub-20 against Bolivar's sub-20. That's how confident the president was. (2) Four months ago the Bolivian sub-19 championship was played. Cochabamba and Tarija were first and second. Santa Cruz was third. Only four players from that championship are in the sudamericano. All four from Santa Cruz. (3) After Castillo, the most talented youngster in the Bolivian league is Javier Guzman. He has yet to play one minute in the sudamericano. Why are Uriona and Vanegas who have done very little in the league playing? (4) Who are some of these players in the sub-20 anyway? Who ever heard of this team Callejas which sent 3 players to the selection? Who is this Ruddy Galvez who belongs to Guabira but doesn't get minutes? Why would anybody be so stupid? Probably regionalism, an endemic evil in Bolivia until now. Also corruption where dirigentes of Santa Cruz are trying to increase a player's value. All I know is that it's wrong, shameful and disgusting. Melgar is now officially off my "admiration" list.
i have watched most of the 3 games so far. not all, because i have grown frustrated at the players who are taking the field. i agree wholeheartedly about guzman. he finally played during the 3rd game, when he was subbed out in the 2nd half. he looked disinterested, perhaps his way of reacting to being passed over for scrubs like monasterio. he, by the way, was one of the players for blooming when they were killed by bolivar. would have it been a different scoreline with castillo? maybe. arze and ortiz both can play. the goalie is pretty good as well. however, the midfield and the defense are clueless.
good result today, but what that score says about peruvian futbol? did you see the 3rd game.... is there a chance to get at least a tie on the next game?
the last game is against uruguay..and they have been coming out 25,000 strong to support their team. it will be tough i think. ecuador was our chance.