Chile makes last ditch attempt to enter World Cup amid dispute over ‘illegitimate’ Ecuador player

In an effort to reach Qatar’s World Cup, Chile has appealed a FIFA Disciplinary Committee ruling that determined Byron Castillo is qualified to play for Ecuador.

When the Chilean Football Federation claimed Castillo had used a forged Ecuadorian passport and birth certificate, FIFA denied the claim in June.

The 23-year-old defender was not, as claimed on his official documents, born in General Villamil Playas, Ecuador, in 1998, as claimed by Chile, who claimed to have proof that he was actually born in Tumaco, Colombia, in 1995.

Have fun reviewing movies and drinks

“With so much evidence, the football world cannot turn a blind eye. The Chilean Football Federation stated that these serious and illegal player registration procedures “cannot be acceptable, especially when we are talking about a global competition.”

The federation said that the Ecuadorian team knew of Castillo’s fabrications and accused them of hiding this information.

In April 2021, a court in Ecuador issued a decision. On November 10, 1998, Castillo was really born in Ecuador.

The Ecuadorean Federation denounced Chile’s allegations as an effort to keep Ecuador from taking part in the World Cup in Qatar.

If the claims are valid, all Castillo’s qualifiers would be awarded 3-0 victories to Ecuador’s opponents, moving Chile to a qualification place.

FIFA has stated that its investigation found no fraudulent matters and cleared the Ecuadorean team.

“After analysing the submissions of all parties concerned and considering all elements brought before it, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to close the proceedings initiated against the FEF,” FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee said.

With less than 90 days left for the World Cup, it would be unexpected for FIFA to overturn its decision and cast out Ecuador, which is set to open alongside host team Qatar.