Paulo Wanchope resigns: Costa Rica manager steps down after fight with a security guard at Panama match

'Let this not stain what I have done for all of you'

(EZEQUIEL BECERRA | AFP | Getty Images)

Less than 24 hours after he was caught on camera in an altercation with a security guard at an Olympic qualifying match, Paulo Wanchope has resigned as manager of Costa Rica.

Wanchope was filmed shoving a young boy and taking a swipe at a security official at a game between Costa Rica and Panama's under 23 sides in Panama City on Tuesday.

The 39-year-old had wanted to go onto the pitch to remonstrate with the referee, yet he was not allowed entry onto the field. Wanchope is seen taking a punch at a security official who then retaliates with an attempted flying kick. The pair are then seen grappling with each other.

Wanchope apologised to both sets of fans, saying he "lost his head" and had "reacted in an unacceptable way" during the 0-0 draw.

"But let this not stain what I have done for all of you," he added. "The (football) ambience is tough, it's tense, but until yesterday I managed to handle it. One can tolerate comments by reporters and on social media and stay calm but it's hard to hold back when someone puts their hands on you."

The Costa Rican Football Federation (Fedefutbol) said, "After a cordial meeting between Paulo Cesar Wanchope and federation (officials), the trainer decided to step aside and leave the position of coach of the national team."