Argentinian Nestor Clausen was a disciplined and intelligent defender whose contributions, though very often understated, were vital to both club and country.
PART ONE
Born on 29 September 1962 in Arrufó, Santa Fe Province, Argentina, Clausen’s story is one of steady ascent rather than meteoric rise. His ancestors, originally from Ernen in Switzerland, had settled in Argentina in 1889, and football would prove to be the path through which Clausen carved out his legacy. However, like many defenders of his era, he was not one to seek the limelight; rather, he focused on efficiency, positioning, and intelligence on the pitch.
His professional career took off with Club Atlético Independiente, a club steeped in history and renowned for its dominance in South American football. Moreover, it was here that Clausen honed his craft, developing into a tenacious full-back with an eye for reading the game and nullifying threats before they even materialised. In a team that was built around both defensive resilience and attacking flair, he quickly became indispensable.
The 1980s was a period of triumph for Independiente, and Clausen played a pivotal role in their success. The club secured the 1983 Metropolitano title, a testament to their domestic supremacy. However, it was on the international stage that they truly left their mark. In 1984, Independiente lifted the Copa Libertadores, South America’s most coveted club competition. As a result, they earned the right to contest the Intercontinental Cup, where they faced European champions Liverpool.
Despite the English side’s reputation and quality, Independiente emerged victorious, winning 1-0 in Tokyo, thanks to a goal from José Percudani. Clausen’s performance in that match was emblematic of his style: disciplined, unfazed, and instrumental in keeping Liverpool’s attack at bay. It was a triumph that confirmed Independiente’s place as a global powerhouse and reinforced Clausen’s growing stature as a defender of the highest calibre.
PART TWO
Having conquered South America, Clausen sought new challenges and found them in Switzerland with FC Sion. Moving to Europe is often a daunting task for South American players, but he adapted well, helping the club to domestic success.
In the 1990-91 season, FC Sion won the Swiss Cup, an achievement that underscored Clausen’s ability to influence teams in different environments. Additionally, the following season, they secured the Swiss Super League title, further enhancing his reputation.
His time in Switzerland was not as high-profile as his days with Independiente or the Argentina national team, yet it was significant in demonstrating his versatility. Defenders are often measured by their ability to adjust to different styles of play, and Clausen’s success in Switzerland confirmed that he was more than just a typical Argentine full-back; he was a well-rounded professional capable of thriving in varying tactical setups.
Despite his European adventure, Clausen’s heart remained in Argentina, and he returned to Independiente to add further silverware to his collection. The 1988-89 Argentine Primera División title reaffirmed the club’s domestic dominance, while the 1995 Supercopa Sudamericana win was a fitting final accolade in his playing career. These triumphs encapsulated what had been a remarkable journey for a defender who consistently delivered excellence without seeking headlines.
PART THREE
While club success is one thing, international glory is another altogether. Fortunately for Nestor Clausen, he would experience the pinnacle of both.
At the age of 20, Clausen was handed his senior debut for the country of his birth in a narrow 1-0 friendly victory against Chile at the Jose Amalfitani Stadium in Buenos Aires on 23 June 1983, and he would go on to play an important role in the qualification for the Mexico World Cup.
In 1986, he was part of the Argentina squad that travelled to the United Mexican States under the guidance of Carlos Bilardo. Of course, this was the tournament that would be forever remembered for Diego Maradona’s genius, from the infamous “Hand of God” to the mesmerising solo goal against England.
However, it takes more than one man to win a World Cup, and Clausen was among the dependable figures in the squad. Although he was not a first-choice starter, his presence provided depth and solidity to Argentina’s defensive ranks.
Furthermore, his understanding of the game made him a valuable asset when called upon. The tournament ended in ultimate glory, with Argentina defeating West Germany 3-2 in the final watched by almost 115,000 spectators at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, securing their second World Cup title.
PART FOUR
Retirement from playing does not always mean retirement from football, and Clausen was no exception. Like many former players, he ventured into management, seeking to instill the values that had defined his career. Though his managerial career did not scale the heights of his playing days, it was not without its successes.
In Bolivia, he took charge of The Strongest and led them to a historic double in 2003, winning both the Torneo Apertura and Torneo Clausura. Moreover, his experience as a player undoubtedly informed his managerial approach, as he emphasised defensive organisation and tactical discipline. While he never became a household name in the dugout, he maintained a respectable career across South America and beyond, managing clubs in Argentina, Ecuador, and the Middle East.
Néstor Clausen’s career may not be the first to spring to mind when discussing Argentine footballing greats, but it is one that deserves recognition. He was never the flashiest player, nor the most outspoken, but he was reliable, intelligent, and effective—qualities that every successful team requires.
His honours list speaks for itself: a Copa Libertadores, an Intercontinental Cup, a World Cup, and multiple league titles. Furthermore, his ability to adapt, whether in Argentina, Switzerland, or Bolivia, highlights the mark of a true professional.