Chilean Championship. Segunda
The Chilean Segunda División, officially Primera B, is the second tier of professional football in Chile. It features ambitious clubs battling for promotion to the top-flight Primera División, serving as a breeding ground for South American talents amid intense competition and passionate fan support.
History and foundation
Established in 1952 as Segunda División, it evolved into Primera B in 2017 to reflect its professional caliber. A notable highlight: in the 1980s, future star Iván Zamorano honed his skills here. The 2020 pandemic suspension created unforgettable drama in the promotion race. Clubs like Unión San Felipe have repeatedly earned promotion, forging rich histories.
Tournament format
The league comprises 16 teams in a double round-robin format—home and away—totaling 60 matches per team in the regular season. Top four advance to playoffs for direct promotion; 5th to 8th enter a challenger playoff. Bottom three or four face relegation to Tercera División. Seasons align with Apertura and Clausura cycles.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.5-2.8, favoring thrilling counter-attacks. All-time scorers include Matías Blanco (over 100 goals) and José Luis Álvarez (45 in a 1990s season). Standout players: Ever Banega started as a defender here before Europe; Alejandro Carrasco shone at Colo-Colo youth. Current stars like Fernando Herrera of Deportes Concepción lead in goals and assists.