Former U.S. national team coach Bora Milutinovic has signed a two-year deal to coach the MetroStars through the 2000 season. “I am very pleased that we were able to sign Bora to a coaching contract for the next two years,” said Metros GM Charlie Stillitano. “I feel that Bora’s experience is vital to the future success of our team. He will immediately begin the task of preparing the MetroStars for next season.” Milutinovic has coached Mexico (’86), Costa Rica (’90), USA (’94), and Nigeria (’98) in the World Cup each time to a round of 16 appearance. He was hired on an interim basis on September 21, 1998, and promptly led the MetroStars to a 1-0 shootout win in New England, ending a six-game losing streak. The MetroStars lost both games of their Eastern Conference semifinal series to Columbus. “I am very happy that I will be able to stay with the MetroStars for the next two years, ” said Milutinovic. “There is plenty of work to do to prepare this team for next year. But, I think we have the talent to surprise people in Major League Soccer.” Milutinovic posted a 30-35-31 record as head coach of the U.S. national team with current Metros Tony Meola, Tab Ramos, Alexi Lalas, and Mike Sorber on his successful 1994 World Cup squad. He beat prominent teams such as Ireland, Colombia, Jamaica, and Norway during his tenure between 1991 and 1995. The 30 coaching wins are the most with the U.S. national team. The MetroStars and Milutinovic will hold off-season training sessions at Kean University in Union, N.J. through December 18. Bora will oversee the training sessions with the help of current assistant coach Tim Mulqueen.