Interim Focus: Venezuela Appoints Oswaldo Viscarondo to Lead in October Friendlies
30 septembre 2025
Interim Coach Appointed as Venezuela Rebuilds
The Venezuelan Football Federation announced on Monday the appointment of former defender Oswaldo Viscarondo as interim head coach of the Venezuela national team, known as "La Vinotinto," to lead the side in two October 2025 friendlies against Argentina and Belize.
The decision comes after a difficult period for the team, as the federation seeks to regain momentum and overhaul the technical staff after a string of disappointing results.
According to the federation's official statement, Viscarondo, 41, will take charge during two important friendlies against Argentina and Belize.
The two matches will be played in the United States on October 10 and 14, 2025.
The games offer a chance to test the squad under new leadership, focusing on improving both collective performance and individual sharpness.
Viscarondo will also continue to lead Venezuela's under-17 national team after these matches.
He is currently focusing on preparing the team for the U-17 World Cup in Qatar.
This dual appointment signals the federation's commitment to developing young talent while leveraging Viscarondo's experience at the senior level on an interim basis.
Career of Viscarondo
Oswaldo Viscarondo began his coaching career in France, working as an assistant at Nantes, a club he had once played for as a defender during his playing days.
As a player, he was known for discipline and leadership, and his transition to coaching followed spells with Venezuela's under-17 and under-20 teams, where he helped develop a new generation of players.
During his time with the youth teams, Viscarondo emphasized a defensively disciplined style, precise passing, and rapid counterattacks. This approach reflects his background as a defender, famed for reading games and organizing the back line. The federation hopes Viscarondo can transfer this experience to the senior team, even if only temporarily, to improve results in the forthcoming friendlies.
Challenges and Outlook for Venezuela
Venezuela remains the only nation in CONMEBOL to have never played in a World Cup. Although there has been some improvement over the last two decades, "La Vinotinto" still faces tough competition from Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay, and the team struggles with funding, infrastructure, and logistical support, which affect its ability to compete at the world level.
The interim period presents an opportunity to reassess strategy and priorities, with attention to tough tactical tests against Argentina and a Belize match to try out young players. The federation also faces the task of appointing a permanent coach with the experience and vision needed to guide the team toward World Cup qualification. A broader plan to improve infrastructure, invest in academies, and boost logistical support will be crucial, as fans long to see their country reach a World Cup for the first time.
In the end, Viscarondo's appointment is a transitional step intended to stabilize the squad and set the stage for the future. The coming weeks will be decisive in whether he can make a positive impact during this short spell, with fans watching closely for what lies ahead for "La Vinotinto."
Punchline 1: They hired a defender to coach the attack—finally a plan that makes the back line part of the punchline.
Punchline 2: If this interim stint works, Venezuela might finally qualify for a World Cup—though the popcorn will still be ready for the long wait.
