Forty-eight international caps and twenty-nine goals define the career of Carlos Humberto Caszely Garrido, the forward widely known as the King of the square meter. Born in Santiago on 5 July 1950, he established himself as a central figure in Chilean football across three decades, representing his country on the world stage while maintaining a lengthy club career.
Professional Club Trajectory
Caszely’s professional journey began at Colo-Colo in 1968, where he played until 1973 before moving to Spain. His European tenure included spells with Levante UD from 1973 to 1975 and RCD Espanyol between 1975 and 1978. He returned to Colo-Colo for a second stint spanning 1978 to 1985, ultimately concluding his playing career at Barcelona SC in 1986. Throughout these years, he secured numerous domestic titles, including the Primera División de Chile in 1970, 1972, 1979, 1981, and 1983, along with Copa Chile victories in 1981, 1982, and 1985.
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During the 1974 FIFA World Cup, Caszely made history by becoming the first player sent off with a red card, issued by referee Doğan Babacan during the match against West Germany. His international participation also extended to the 1982 World Cup, where he notably missed a penalty against Austria. In June 1976, he represented the national team of Catalonia in a friendly match against the Soviet Union, providing an assist to Johan Neeskens.
Political and Public Life
Beyond the pitch, Caszely engaged in national politics, gaining prominence as an opponent of the Pinochet dictatorship. He and his mother famously participated in televised advertisements backing the No vote during the 1988 presidential referendum. His later career involved public service, including a tenure as a sports press attaché at the Embassy of Chile in Spain from June 2014 to April 2015 under President Michelle Bachelet. He also worked as a television host for Canal 13.
Education and Accolades
Caszely pursued diverse academic interests, completing studies in Physical Education at the University of Chile, a business administration degree from the University of Navarra, and a degree in journalism from the University of Santiago in the 1990s. His individual achievements include being the Chilean League’s top scorer in 1979, 1980, and 1981, serving as top scorer for the 1973 Copa Libertadores, and receiving the 2009 CONMEBOL award for his contributions to South American football.
Fast facts
- Born: 5 July 1950, Santiago, Chile
- Primary Position: Forward
- International Caps: 48
- International Goals: 29
- Colo-Colo Tenure: 1968–1973, 1978–1985
- Academic Institutions: University of Chile, University of Navarra, University of Santiago
- Nickname: King of the square meter
- Political Stance: Opposed the Pinochet dictatorship
Questions readers ask
What significant disciplinary milestone did Caszely set in 1974?
He became the first player in history to be sent off with a red card during a FIFA World Cup match.
Did Caszely hold any diplomatic roles?
Yes, he served as a sports press attaché at the Embassy of Chile in Spain from June 2014 to April 2015.
