He was assistant coach to Francisco Maturana in the last two World Cup finals. But since 1995, when Maturana switched allegiance to manage Ecuador, Gomez has held sway.

He is acutely aware of the dangers linked with the job. Outside Colombia very few people give his side much chance of making an impression in France. But Gomez knows that in Colombia there are likely to be drug cartels with millions of dollars riding on the success of his side.

He was profoundly affected by the murder of defender Andrea Escobar after Colombia's first round elimination in 1994. But Gomez has carried on his search for success. But, perhaps because of this, he has introduced a less flamboyant style, preferring to concentrate on a more solid and practical approach.