Biography
Who is Walter Centeno?
Early life and professional beginnings
Born in Palmar, Costa Rica, Wálter Centeno Corea grew up to become a prominent figure in local sports. He earned the nickname Paté during his childhood years because of his affinity for consuming pate products. His professional path began at A.D. Belén, where he made his first league appearance on February 4, 1995, against Alajuelense. By September of that same year, he recorded his first professional goal in a match against Turrialba.
Club career highlights
Most of his club career took place with Deportivo Saprissa. While playing there, he won ten national championships and one CONCACAF Champions Cup. In 2005, he participated in the FIFA Club World Championship, where his performance received praise from football analysts. He also spent time abroad, moving to Greece in 2002 to join AEK Athens.
During his season with the Greek club, he played in the UEFA Champions League, scoring goals against major European teams like Real Madrid and Roma. After returning to Costa Rica, he helped Saprissa win multiple titles before retiring in 2012. His final league game occurred on May 5, 2012, against Santos de Guápiles. Following his retirement, he briefly returned to the pitch in 2013 to play for the Puerto Rican team Bayamón FC.
International achievements
On the international stage, he established himself as a vital member of the Costa Rica national football team. He debuted for the squad on September 27, 1995, against Jamaica. Over the next thirteen years, he became a fixture for the national side. He represented his country in various major tournaments, including the Copa América in 1997, 2001, and 2004, as well as the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cup competitions.
By the time he played his final international match on November 18, 2009, he had accumulated 137 caps and scored 24 goals. This achievement surpassed the previous record for the most appearances by a Costa Rican player. He served as team captain during the latter part of the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying cycle.
Family and personal life
Walter Centeno was born to parents Benigno Centeno and Lidieth Corea. In his private life, he is married to Vivian Gutiérrez. Together, the couple has three children. Standing 174 centimeters tall, he transitioned from his playing days into coaching. He has managed teams such as Santos de Guápiles, utilizing the extensive experience he gathered during his years as an attacking midfielder.
Birthday and age
Walter Centeno was born on October 6, 1974, which makes Walter 52 years old today. That birthday falls under the Libra sign. Walter shares the date with 63 other famous people.
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