Bogota, Jan 15 (IANS): Reinaldo Rueda has been appointed as the head coach of Colombia's national team for a second time, just a day after leaving his post as Chile manager.

The 63-year-old replaces Portuguese Carlos Queiroz, who was sacked last month after Colombia's poor start to the South American zone qualifiers for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, reports Xinhua news agency.

"We wish Reinaldo Rueda and his backroom staff much success, convinced that they will do an excellent job with the tasks ahead," the Colombian Football Federation said in a statement on Thursday.

Rueda parted ways with Chile on Wednesday, having led the team to nine wins, eight draws and 10 defeats following his appointment in January 2018.

The Cali-born coach had a 33-month spell in charge of Colombia from early 2004 to late 2006, when he guided the Cafeteros to 17 wins, 12 draws and 11 defeats.

Colombia are currently placed seventh in the 10-team CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings, behind Chile on goal difference.

The top four teams at the end of the qualifying campaign will earn an automatic berth at football's showpiece tournament in Qatar, while the fifth-ranked side will advance to an intercontinental playoff.