In the first three home games of the South American World Cup, Bolivia only scored 1 win and 2 losses in La Paz. After replacing home games with El Alto at a higher altitude in September last year, the effect was immediate. Bolivia won 4 and 2 draws at 6 home games, remained unbeaten, defeating two strong opponents, Brazil and Colombia. Even Uruguay was not able to take advantage.
Bolivian coach Bilegas replaced Zago, who was fired for a Copa America in July last year. Bilegas has expressed his hope to play his home advantage by enabling 80% of players adapted to high altitude environments, including players from the "standing army" of El Alto's local club, and players from the "Bolival" of La Paz club.
Hernando Siles Stadium
El Alto Municipal Stadium
Comparison of Bolivia's two home games:
Hernando Siles Stadium (La Paz/3640 meters above sea level)
Bolivia 0-3 Argentina
Bolivia 1-2 Ecuador
Bolivia 2-0 Peru
El Alto Municipal Stadium (El Alto/4088 meters above sea level)
Bolivia 4-0 Venezuela
Bolivia 1-0 Colombia
Bolivia 2-2 Paraguay
Bolivia 0-0 Uruguay
Bolivia 2-0 Chile
Bolivia 1-0 Brazil
(End)
