La Paz, Mar 31: Chilean striker Marcelo Salas inspired his team to a 2-0 World Cup qualifying win away to Bolivia in his first international for two-and-a-half years. Hampered by injury since his last appearance against Brazil in October 2001, Salas yesterday dictated the pace of the game as his side made light of the difficult conditions in La Paz, at 3,600 metres above sea level. Salas also set up Chile's 38th minute opener when Bolivia goalkeeper Jose Fernandez could only Parry his swerving free kick and the ball fell to midfielder Moises Villaroel, who scored with a diving header from close range. The stunned Bolivians made a lively start to the second half, forcing Chile's veteran goalkeeper Nelson Tapia into several good saves. But Chile struck a killer blow in the 59th minute when striker Mauricio Pinilla, who had come on three minutes earlier, weaved past three defenders and crossed to the far post, finding Mark Gonzalez, who slid the ball into their net.


Bolivia were jeered off the field by the 40,000 crowd after suffering a critical blow to their hopes of qualifying for Germany in 2006.


Coach Nelson Acosta had said that Bolivia would have to make the most of the altitude factor and win all their home games to have a chance.


Chile, beaten at home by Paraguay in their last match, have seven points from five games in the South American qualifying group while Bolivia have only three.


Republic, and the series begins at Hockenheim in Germany on April 18.


Bureau Report