USMNT World Cup defender and former MLS coach Fernando Clavijo passed away Friday at the age of 63, his family announced through U.S. Soccer on Saturday.
Clavijo battled multiple myeloma for a half-decade following a decorated playing and coaching career which saw him inducted into the U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame in 2005.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Fernando Clavijo’s passing on February 8 after a courageous battle with cancer,” his family said in a release. “The support and encouragement he received from friends and the entire soccer community throughout his fight will always be appreciated. At this time the Clavjio family requests privacy as we mourn the loss of a great man and no additional statements will be made. Further details on remembrances and a celebration of his life will be shared in the near future.”
The Uruguay-born defender was capped 61 times by the USMNT, and played in the ASL, NASL, and MISL (indoor). He also played eight times for the U.S. futsal team.
Clavijo started two of the three USMNT matches in the 1994 World Cup: The 2-1 defeat of Colombia and 1-0 loss to Romania.
He went on to coach both club and international soccer, assisting Nigeria before running the Haitian national team from 2003-05. He was the head coach of the New England Revolution and Colorado Rapids before leading then-USL side Miami FC in 2009.
He was hired as FC Dallas’ technical director in 2012.
Fernando was a brilliant soccer mind but an even better man. We are all better for having known him.
— Dan Hunt (@DanHuntFCD) February 9, 2019
He will be dearly missed by the entire FC Dallas family. https://t.co/tGZ4LMtiwq
A life dedicated to the game. #USMNT World Cup veteran Fernando Clavijo has passed away at age 63 after a courageous battle with cancer. » https://t.co/qzOn2yQlO2 pic.twitter.com/W6wPdVd3ki
— U.S. Men's National Soccer Team (@USMNT) February 9, 2019
My sincerest condolences to the Clavijo family.
— herculez gomez (@herculezg) February 9, 2019
Fernando will be missed, but never forgotten.
Forever grateful for the opportunity and wisdom you provided.
RIP, my friend. 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/xdUVUWR0J9
The Revolution are saddened by the passing of Fernando Clavijo, who served as our head coach from 2000-2002. His significant impact on the sport of soccer will long be felt and we are grateful for all his contributions. Our prayers and condolences are with his family & friends. https://t.co/neZFDxJOKc
— New England Revolution (@NERevolution) February 9, 2019