Juan Antonio Pizzi parts ways with Bahrain

Juan Antonio Pizzi led Bahrain to top the Group E of AFC Asian Cup 2023.

Bahrain Football Association announced on Thursday the termination of the contract of head coach Juan Antonio Pizzi by mutual agreement.

Spaniard Pizzi took over the role vacated by Helio Sousa after the end of his contract in July 2023 and was in charge of Bahrain at the recent AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.

The 55-year-old guided Bahrain to top Group E in the tournament, ahead of Korea Republic and eventual runners-up Jordan but came unstuck in the Round of 16 at the hands of Japan.

Pizzi oversaw a 3-1 defeat to Korea Republic in their opening game before recovering in the next two games to beat Malaysia and Jordan, both by 1-0 scores.

In the seven months in charge, Pizzi’s record with Bahrain over 10 matches stood at five wins, one draw and four defeats.

The Argentine-born was previously in charge of the Chile and Saudi Arabia national teams as well as at club level with Valencia in Spain and Al Wasl in the United Arab Emirates.

Bahrain’s next focus is the double-header against Nepal in the Preliminary Joint Qualification – Round 2 for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™.

They are currently second in Group H behind UAE after one win and one defeat.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.