extended his contract with Colombia until 2018. For the second consecutive time, Pékerman qualified Colombia for the FIFA World Cup this time for the 2018 edition in Russia. Colombia suffered a controversial defeat in their first group stage game against a well-organized and determined Japan, but then came out much stronger to inflict a 3–0 victory over Poland (effectively knocking them out of the tournament in the process). After beating Senegal 1–0 in the last game of the group stage, Colombia qualified to the round of 16 as first in their group. After a bitter and contested match, Colombia lost 4–3 on penalties to England after a 1–1 draw. In September 2018, Pékerman decided not to renew his contract, and left his position as Colombia manager after six years in charge. Venezuela In November 2021, Pékerman became the head coach of Venezuela. Honours Manager Argentina U20 South American Youth Championship: 1997, 1999; runner-up 1995, 2001 FIFA U-20 World Cup: 1995, 1997, 2001 Argentina FIFA Confederations Cup runner-up: 2005 Individual South American Coach of the Year: 2012, 2013, 2014 IFFHS Best National Coach of the Year Nominee: 2013 (5th) Management style and legacy Pékerman is known for his tactical management style, often selecting the players that fit his style of coaching, regardless of how talented a player is. Pékerman can make controversial selections with line-ups against certain teams. He experimented heavily with the Argentinean youth squads when he was coaching them. Before the 2006 World Cup began, Pékerman made the controversial decision to drop established defenders Javier Zanetti and Walter Samuel. When Argentina was eliminated by Germany in the quarter-finals, his substitution decision caused storms of criticism, as well. Despite the dramatic loss, Pékerman was still hailed by many fans and press as a very effective coach and the "Pékerman Era" is regarded as one that brought a lot of pride to the country. His team lost its temper after the elimination and instigated a huge brawl, which was believed to be a major factor in his resignation. Managerial statistics Statistics accurate as of 20 November 2022 Personal life Pékerman was born in Villa Domínguez, Entre Ríos. His grandparents, who were Ukrainian Jews, immigrated from Ukraine and settled in the agricultural colonies of Entre Ríos Province. Following Colombia's qualification for the 2014 World Cup, Pekerman stated his desire to be a naturalized Colombian, which was granted by President Juan Manuel Santos