Dumped Bauza keeps faith in Argentina bid

Apr 12, 2017 - 1:19 AM Sacked Argentina head coach Edgardo Bauza believes they will still qualify for the World Cup.

Bauza's reign as coach was ended after just eight months in the post by new AFA president Claudio Tapia, with their place in Russia next summer far from certain.

Defeats against Paraguay, Brazil and in their most recent qualifier against Bolivia last month have left Argentina in fifth spot in their World Cup qualifying group on 22 points, 11 behind leaders Brazil.

The top four qualify automatically for Russia next year, with the fifth-placed nation facing a play-off against a team from Oceania.

At a press conference to announce his departure the former Sao Paolo coach said: "Being head coach of Argentina has been a wonderful experience

"I believe that Argentina will qualify for the World Cup.

"I thank the President, Claudio Tapia, because he was very frank when it comes to dialogue.

"I want to thank the players. It has been eight good months, leaving me very happy."

Sevilla boss Jorge Sampaoli and Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone have both been linked with the Argentina post.

Source: AAP