Chile is going through an expectant stage after being eliminated from the Qatar 2022 Qualifiers. Although it did not reach the necessary points to secure a spot, the situation of Byron Castillo's nationality could give him the chance to play in the World Cup in the Middle East.
While FIFA pronounces and gives its verdict regarding the case of the Barcelona de Guayaquil player, the Chilean national team will travel to the other side of the world to play a series of friendly matches. First, they will play against South Korea; and then, they will participate in the Kirin Cup tournament, where they will face Tunisia in the first phase and could face Japan or Ghana, depending on the results.
The Chilean national team is still hoping to qualify for the World Cup thanks to the case of Byron Castillo. Photo: AFP
Long journey
To reach the preparation matches they have scheduled, the 'Roja' will have to travel a long distance across the planet, as the matches are in the Asian continent.
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Among the stops in Sao Paulo, Dubai, Seoul, Daejon (city where they will play against South Korea) and Kobe (town where they will face Tunisia), Chile will travel more than 22,000 kilometers across the world. Undoubtedly, a considerable journey to prepare while still dreaming of a favorable response in the Castillo case.
Berizzo awaits a decision
The new coach of the Chilean national team, Eduardo Berizzo, is patient with the 'Roja' situation internationally and states that he is prepared for any scenario.
"There are two possible scenarios: one is going to the World Cup in Qatar, which would accelerate the timelines. And the other is attempting to qualify for the next World Cup. If the timelines allow it, of course we will observe the young players and the opportunities for them will be higher," he said in a press conference.