AMSTERDAM, Netherlands, CMC—Legendary former football manager Leo Beenhakker, who led Trinidad and Tobago to their only World Cup in 2006, died on Thursday at 82.
During a storied coaching career, Beenhakker coached the national teams of the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Poland, Real Madrid, Feyenoord, and Ajax clubs.
Austin Jack Warner, who was influential in bringing Beenhakker to T&T, praised the Dutchman, saying he had done the country an excellent service.
He said Beenhakker had brought T&T to a level no one believed was possible.
“I must say that I was shocked today when I got the news of the passing of Leo, my friend, my brother, my colleague, and even much more. The pain of the loss is beyond overwhelming.
“The emotional journey I was forced to travel through upon hearing the news can never be described. Leo was the man who took this country to their dizzying heights of gold football when they qualified for the FIFA Men’s World Cup in 2006,” Warner said.
“No other national coach before Beenhakker or none after him has matched his achievement, and no other coach, I dare say, no other man has brought this nation together as Leo did.”
Beenhakker led Ajax to the Eredivisie title in the 1979-80 and 1989-90 seasons before winning the Dutch top flight again with Feyenoord in 1998-99.
However, Beenhakker’s most successful stint came at Madrid, winning three La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, and two Supercopa trophies.
In a statement, Real Madrid expressed condolences at Beenhakker’s passing.
“Real Madrid, its president and board of directors, are deeply saddened by the death of Leo Beenhakker, the legendary Real Madrid coach who led the Whites between 1986 and 1989 and in 1992,” the Spanish side said.
“Real Madrid wants to express their condolences and affection to his family, clubs, and loved ones.
“Leo Beenhakker has passed away at the age of 82. Real Madrid extends its condolences to all Madridistas. May he rest in peace,” the statement added.
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