SANTIAGO – The upcoming FIFA Confederations Cup Russia 2017, to be contested from 17 June to 2 July, is a “historic opportunity” for the Chilean national team to “consolidate the work of a brilliant generation”.
These were Sergio Goycochea’s words yesterday in Santiago, where the Argentinian had travelled to parade the coveted Tournament of Champions trophy in his capacity as a FIFA Legend.
During his visit to the city where he tasted Copa America glory in 1991, Goycochea was full of praise for La Roja, who will kick off their Confederations Cup campaign on 18 June against African champions Cameroon in Moscow.
“There was a strong Chilean generation in my time, including great players like [Ivan] Zamorano, [Patricio] Yanez, [Ivo] Basay and later [Marcelo] Salas,” said the former goalkeeper, who won the Confederations Cup himself in 1992.
“However, the current crop, with the likes of Alexis [Sanchez], [Arturo] Vidal, [Claudio] Bravo and [Gary] Medel, represent a watershed for Chilean football, not only because they’ve won the Copa America twice, but also due to the character they show on the pitch.
“It will be a delight for the Russian fans to watch that side take on Cameroon, Germany and Australia. Chile have a team capable of reaching the final.”
While in Santiago, Goycochea also took the time out to talk to a number of media outlets and to meet the President of the Chilean Football Association, Arturo Salah, as well as other local football personalities and a group of Chilean volunteers who will be present at the Confederations Cup.
