Juan Manuel Córdoba on Chile's historic World Cup qualifying run: 'Every game will be for growth'

Chile's national basketball team has secured a historic advancement to the second round of the World Cup qualifiers, marking a significant achievement for the program. The team clinched their spot by securing vital away victories against Colombia and Venezuela, demonstrating resilience and determination on the road.

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It is a historic fact to be able to qualify for the second instance and with real possibilities of competing. Furthermore, qualifying by winning away from home is not very common for Chilean basketball.

Head coach Juan Manuel Córdoba emphasized the magnitude of this accomplishment, noting that reaching this stage with a real chance to compete is unprecedented. He particularly praised the team's ability to win away from home, a feat not commonly seen in Chilean basketball history. Córdoba highlighted the players' exceptional effort and sacrifice, especially given the team's struggles with player availability due to injuries throughout the previous phase.

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We beat a great Colombian team, which had its full squad. We, on the other hand, had absences in all six games, with important players injured. That's why the effort and sacrifice of the guys has been double.

Looking ahead, the team faces a considerably tougher challenge in the upcoming stage. Chile will compete against some of the world's top basketball nations, including the top-ranked USA, the Olympic champions, as well as the Dominican Republic and Mexico. These opponents possess extensive international experience.

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Now come bigger words. We know how difficult it is, but we also know the possibilities we have. Mexico, for example, is only one point ahead of us in the standings. Every game for us will be a learning experience, but we go with all the hope of fighting for that seventh spot in the World Cup.

Despite the daunting prospects, Córdoba expressed optimism and a strong desire to compete. He views each upcoming match as an opportunity for growth and learning, with the ultimate goal of securing one of the remaining World Cup berths. The coach also stressed the importance of collective effort, including support from the Chilean Basketball Federation, the National Sports Institute (IND), and private sponsors, to ensure adequate preparation and enable the team to perform at its best on the international stage.

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Sebastián brings a lot of hierarchy on and off the court, but this is a team sport. We are growing and showing that we are advancing, even though we still have few players abroad at an international level.