They will be without the help of the altitude. Bolivia still plays the part of "extra" in the America Cup. Throughout history their only two good showings in this competition were when they were the hosts and played in the high altitude.
After their surprising qualification for World Cup 1994 Bolivia was not able to replicate their run in neither the World Cup qualifiers nor the America Cup again. The only exception was the 1997 edition of the tournament where they ended in second place as the host nation.
The outlook for America Cup 2007 does not look too bright. They have a team without stars and playing in a country without high altitude. If they make it past the first round it gives the people of Bolivia a reason to celebrate.
Coach
Erwin Sanchez
Erwin Sanchez, also known as the Bolivian Platini, will now try to lead Bolivia back to their 90's form. He was present in the second place finish at the 1997 American Cup, and their World Cup 1994 campaign. Sanchez began his coaching career with Portuguese side Boavista.
The Star
Arce
Juan Carlos Arce went to Brazil with the mission to showcase the future of Bolivian soccer. After a short stint on Portuguesa, the striker became Corinthians hope, but he is still trying to find a spot in the starting 11. On the Bolivian national team he has star status, and will be sure to be one of the stars of the America Cup.
Country Information
Surface Area
1.098.581 km²
Population
8.586.443 people
Language
Spanish
Predominate Religion
Catholic
Currency
Boliviano (BOB)
Federation
Federation Boliviana de Fútbol
Founded
1925
Website
N/A
Important Clubs
Real Potosí, Blooming, Bolívar, Destroyers, Jorge Wilstermann, Oriente Petrolero, The Strongest
America Cup
22 appearances
Tentative Line Up
Sergio Galarza; Nicolás Suárez, Juan Manuel Peña, Oscar Sánchez and Lorgio Álvarez; Ronald García, Gualberto Mojica, Gonzalo Galindo and Joselito Vaca; Arce and Nelson Sossa.