- 20 years later, Bielsa returns to the competition with a 1-0 win against Concacaf foe Panama
- Uruguay sparkled on the Hard Rock Stadium field with the quintessential attacking style Bielsa coached teams are known for.
A special manager with countless special nights under his belt added another on Sunday night when his Uruguay team opened CONMEBOL Copa América 2024™ against Panama at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
After 20 years, legendary Argentine coach Marcelo Bielsa, made his triumphant return to the competition he left after helping Argentina reach the final during the 2004 edition. La Celeste dazzled the spectators on hand in Florida, with sweeping attacking moves “El Loco” team’s have been known for over the years.
Maximiliano Araujo celebrated his manager’s return to the competition with the goal of the tournament so far, while wave after wave of Uruguayan attacks crashed against a resolute Panamanian defense.
Between the 2004 and 2024 tournaments, Bielsa was well traveled. Highlights include coaching the Chilean national team, reaching the Copa del Rey final with Athletic Bilbao during the 2011-12, managing French giants Marseille, and a four year run with Leeds United who he helped get promoted back to the English Premier League after a 16 year absence.
Across from him in the dugout on Sunday night was another former Leeds United coach, Thomas Christiansen. A testament to the winding and unpredictable roads football managers take during their careers. Finally Bielsa road led him back to the competition he left 20 years prior.
Under the late June Floridian sky, “El Loco” returned to CONMEBOL Copa América™ again, a special night for not just him, but football fans across the world.
