Bolivian icon comes out of retirement to chase WC dream, only to be snubbed from squad
Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 13.03.26. | 22:50
La Verde's all-time leading scorer and appearance-maker Marcelo Martins Moreno resumed his playing career to help his national team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup inter-confederation play-offs, but, in the end, wasn't called up!
For the first time since their last appearance 32 years ago, Bolivia actually have a good chance to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. La Verde finished the South American qualifiers in seventh spot, which secured them a place in the inter-confederation play-offs, where they'll face Suriname in the semi-finals (March 26) and Iraq in the eventual decisive match (March 31).
Given the circumstances and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the entire country dreams big, as everyone focuses on success.
Hence, Bolivia's legendary striker and the national team's all-time leading scorer and appearance-maker, Marcelo Martins Moreno, decided to come out of retirement after two years to be able to help La Verde in the play-offs.
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In April 2024, following his brief spell with Brazilian Cruzeiro, he hung up his boots, but a month ago, he announced his comeback, joining his boyhood club Oriente Petrolero.
The former striker of 13 different clubs, including Shakhtar Donetsk, Werder Bremen, and Wigan Athletic, thus put himself at the disposal of the national team head coach Oscar Villegas, but faced a highly unpleasant surprise a couple of days ago.
Namely, the Bolivia manager announced a 28-man squad for the upcoming friendly match against Trinidad and Tobago, and the aforementioned play-offs, but Moreno's name wasn't in it!
💔 THE WORLD CUP DREAM IS OVER
— FOOTBALL WORLD (@fbworld23) March 11, 2026
Marcelo Moreno Martins, a legend of Bolivian soccer, was ready to become a hero for his country one more time.
The striker came out of retirement in 2024 after Bolivia secured a spot in the World Cup playoff, hoping to get back in shape and help… pic.twitter.com/MV45gea1Li
Following the decision, the striker's brother reacted harshly, posting on Instagram "Vamos Surinam" ("Come on, Suriname").
The five strikers Villegas called up have collected 40 games in the green jersey and combined for four goals, but, for some reason, the 55-year-old decided he didn't need the man who represented Bolivia on 108 occasions, scoring 31 times.
Hence, the 38-year-old Moreno's efforts seem to have been in vain, though his hope will still be alive if La Verde book their ticket to the USA, Canada, and Mexico, as he may be part of the World Cup squad.
For now, he'll have to wait and cheer for his compatriots from the comfort of his home.