Managing to lose their jobs

The unusual circumstances surrounding Togo coach Otto Pfister this week first he resigns, then he returns highlights a situation that it is not unprecedented for coaches to leave their jobs during a FIFA World Cup.

Incredibly, in 1998, no less than three coaches were dismissed during the tournament and all after their team”s second match. Those packing their bags earlier than expected were current Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira who paid the price for Saudi Arabia”s opening two defeats in France 1-0 v Denmark, 4-0 v the host nation.

Cha Bum Kun of Korea Republic went after they posted defeats by 3-1 against Mexico and 5-0 v Netherlands. Two starting defeats against England (2-0) and Colombia (1-0) also cost Henryk Kasperczak, a Polish manager in charge of Tunisia, his job at the France tournament.

Curiously, all three teams then tied their final group matches under new management: Saudi Arabia 2-2 South Africa, Korea Republic 1-1 Belgium, Tunisia 1-1 Romania.

(fifaworldcup.com)