Reinaldo Rueda

Early career

As a footballer, Rueda played for emerging clubs in amateur and college competitions. However, he decided that coaching would be a better way and later became the coach of Independiente Medellín, Deportivo Cali, and Cortuluá.

Colombia national team

As a coach Rueda was in charge of the Colombia U-17, U-20, U-21, U-23 and senior teams. Rueda made the final qualifying rounds with the Colombia U-21 in the Toulon Tournament in France in 2000 and 2001. In the first tournament, During Rueda's tenure, Colombia defeated the Republic of Ireland (1–0), Ghana (4–1) and Côte d'Ivoire (3–1). In the final against Portugal on 3 June, Colombia won the championship on penalties (3–1). At the 2003 South American U-20 tournament in Uruguay, Rueda assured his team a ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup after a 10-year hiatus. His successes made him the coach of the senior side in 2004 for the task to qualify for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. However, it proved to be a failure and Rueda was sacked after two years in charge.

Honduras national team

Rueda took the helm of the Honduras national football team in January 2007, and led the team to qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, ending 28 years of qualification failures. However, he came under intense scrutiny following criticism of his tactics as the team exited the World Cup at the first stage. On 28 July 2010, Rueda stepped down as Honduras coach after three years at the helm.

Ecuador national team…

Born in Cali, Rueda holds a physical education degree. He completed his master's degree at the Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln, Germany, where he also gained proficiency in the German language. He is also a university professor and has taught several courses at the Colombian National Coaches School. He has continued his studies in Europe, attending FIFA and UEFA coaching courses.

In 2011, Rueda was naturalized as a Honduran citizen.

Manager

Atlético Nacional Categoría Primera A (2): 2015 Finalización, 2017 Apertura Superliga Colombiana (1): 2016 Copa Colombia (1): 2016 Copa Libertadores (1): 2016 Recopa Sudamericana (1): 2017 Colombia U-21 Toulon Tournament (1): 2000