Background and Relevance
Costa Rica has entrusted its national team’s destiny to Miguel Herrera, a Mexican coach, in pursuit of a seventh World Cup appearance. This marks the first time Costa Rica has chosen a Mexican coach to lead their national team, hoping to earn direct qualification without the play-off stage, as they did for Qatar 2022.
Herrera, known as “El Piojo” (The Moustached One), previously coached Mexico from 2013 to 2015, leading the team to victory in the 2015 Gold Cup and qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil after overcoming the play-off round.
Herrera’s Objectives and Experience
In an interview with El Economista, Herrera expressed his determination to prove why Costa Rica’s Football Federation (FCRF) chose him. He aims to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, having only six matches under his belt with Costa Rica so far.
Herrera’s coaching career has been primarily in Mexico, with clubs such as America, Tijuana (twice), Rayados, Atlante, Tiburones Rojos, and Tecos. His technical team comprises Álvaro Galindo (second assistant), José Rangel (fitness coach), and Oscar Escobar (assistant coach), all of whom have worked with Herrera before.
The Importance of High-Intensity Play
Herrera emphasizes the importance of high-intensity play, stating that it is the difference between national teams. He highlighted Costa Rica’s 8-0 victory over Bahamas in a Concacaf World Cup qualifier, which set a new historical record for La Sele.
“The high-scoring match against Bahamas was a result of our full commitment. We aim to play at maximum intensity in every game, regardless of the opponent’s strength. Our average player age is 25.4, which is younger than the Mexican national team’s average of 27.1 years, indicating a generational shift,” Herrera explained.
Key Questions and Answers
- What do you expect of yourself as the coach of Costa Rica, regardless of the Copa Oro results?
“To perform. The Federación has bet on my team, and we are content to represent Mexico as foreigners. We want to demonstrate why they have chosen us, and we are working hard with the goal of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.”
- How do you plan to prove your coaching project’s effectiveness for the World Cup?
“My technical team and I have been working together for some time. We must demonstrate that we are well-prepared and committed to securing a World Cup berth.”
- What is your approach to high-intensity play?
“High-intensity play is crucial for national teams. It’s about giving our all in every match, which sets us apart from other teams. Our average player age is 25.4, which reflects a generational shift and our commitment to this approach.”
