el repechaje

Question

Is anyone please help me to translate this paragraph from Chile CNN:

Los dirigidos de Jorge Sampaoli ya abrocharon el repechaje, y probablemente obtengan la clasificación directa al mundial, a falta de dos fechas para terminar las clasificatorias.

Some words can't find in dictionaries, and even when I have them, I couldn't understand how to translate it.

Thank you very much.

I have edited your post for proper capitalization. - rac1, Sep 9, 2013

Answer 1

Repechaje is an old word in Chilean Spanish.

It's an opportunity given to seek revenge and it is used in any kind of competition. From all the already eliminated groups/individuals, through some kind of mini competition or just by draw of luck, it is decided who will be given "el repechaje". It might be more than one individual or group.

So a type of double elimination or a "bye" where they can advance without competing. - gringojrf, Sep 9, 2013

You could say that. But it is a process in which everybody agrees to it before the competition starts. - chileno, Sep 9, 2013

Thank chileno, your helping is very useful. - baonguyen5515, Sep 10, 2013

You're welcome. - chileno, Sep 10, 2013

Answer 2

Definition of REPECHAGE

a trial heat (as in rowing) in which first-round losers are given another chance to qualify for the semifinals

I think it is something similar to the wild cards game in the NFL.

Yes mate , we use it in rowing here also , probably used world wide , it is a French word. - ray76, Sep 13, 2013

Answer 3

My guess:

• The team coached by Jorge Sampaoli already buckled (resolved) the playoffs, and will probably obtain direct qualification to the World Cup, with two qualifying dates (two games to play) remaining.

Thank MrSoprano. I can understand your translating. - baonguyen5515, Sep 10, 2013