In Argentina as well as the early years in Chile he played as a central midfielder, but later in his career, during his period in Palestino, he moved to the role of centre-back, and was known in particular for his technique and ability in the air. Following his nationalization, he played 22 games for Chile's national squad from 1954 to 1960. Famously he was part of the team that beat Brazil 4–1 during the 1956 South American Championship in Uruguay, helping his side to a second-place finish in the tournament.