by The rivalry between chile national football team vs argentina national football team lineups represents one of South America’s most intense football competitions.
With the Copa America tournament underway, all eyes are on this crucial match that could determine Argentina’s advancement to the knockout stages.
Fresh off their victory against Canada, Argentina’s squad still shows room for improvement despite their 2-0 win.
The world watches to see if Lionel Messi, who recently celebrated his 37th birthday, can lead his team to another victory and secure their place in the next round of the prestigious tournament.
Chile National Football Team Vs Argentina National Football Team Lineups
Chile, meanwhile, comes into this match after a disappointing goalless draw against Peru in their opening game.
Despite showing promising offensive capabilities in pre-tournament friendlies, Chile has struggled to find the back of the net in their recent Copa America appearances.
In fact, they’ve failed to score in their last three tournament matches – a concerning trend that needs breaking against the formidable Argentine defense.
This match represents a critical opportunity for Chile to revitalize their campaign and prove their attacking prowess against one of the tournament favorites.
The historical significance of this matchup cannot be understated, with memorable encounters in recent Copa America tournaments including Chile’s penalty shootout victories in the 2015 and 2016 finals.
However, Argentina has reasserted their dominance in more recent meetings, suggesting the tide may have turned back in favor of La Albiceleste.
Team and Injury News
Argentina
The Argentine camp brings positive news regarding their captain and talisman. Lionel Messi is confirmed fit for the match against Chile, dispelling earlier concerns after he suffered an injury scare following a rough tackle from Bombito during the Canada game. Fans worldwide can breathe a sigh of relief knowing the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will be available to lead La Albiceleste.
Coach Lionel Scaloni faces some interesting selection decisions ahead of this crucial encounter. Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez were notable benchwarmers in the previous match, though Martinez made a significant impact after coming on as a substitute by scoring a goal. This productive cameo appearance puts pressure on Scaloni to potentially include Martinez in the starting lineup against Chile.
The defensive unit remains largely settled with Emiliano Martinez continuing as the first-choice goalkeeper behind a back four that has shown remarkable consistency. In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul continues to be the engine room of the team, while Alexis Mac Allister provides creative influence alongside Giovani Lo Celso.
Chile
Chile’s preparation has been complicated by injury concerns and disciplinary issues. Diego Valdes is a major doubt for the match after being substituted at halftime during their opener against Peru due to a knock. His absence could significantly impact Chile’s creative capabilities in midfield.
Additionally, coach Ricardo Gareca must carefully consider his selection due to the yellow card situation. Three key players – Victor Davila, Alexis Sanchez, and Erick Pulgar – received cautions in their previous match. This places them at risk of suspension should they pick up another yellow card against Argentina. Gareca faces the difficult decision of whether to field these important players and risk losing them for subsequent matches, or prioritize longer-term tournament strategy.
The experienced Claudio Bravo continues to provide leadership from between the posts, while Mauricio Isla brings valuable experience to the defensive line. Chile’s midfield balance will be crucial against Argentina’s technical quality, with Arturo Vidal’s availability being another consideration for Gareca’s selection dilemmas.
Argentina vs Chile: Predicted Lineups
Argentina Expected Starting XI (4-4-2)
Argentina is likely to maintain their preferred 4-4-2 formation that provides both defensive solidity and attacking flexibility. The predicted lineup includes:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | E. Martinez |
| Right Back | Molina |
| Center Back | Romero |
| Center Back | Li. Martinez |
| Left Back | Acuna |
| Right Midfield | Di Maria |
| Central Midfield | Lo Celso |
| Central Midfield | De Paul |
| Left Midfield | Mac Allister |
| Forward | Alvarez |
| Forward | Messi |
Key tactical considerations:
- Angel Di Maria provides width and crossing ability on the right flank
- Rodrigo De Paul will likely serve as the midfield engine, connecting defense to attack
- The Alvarez-Messi partnership continues up front, combining youth and experience
- Lisandro Martinez brings ball-playing ability from defense
- Mac Allister’s positional flexibility allows for tactical adjustments during the match
Chile Expected Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
Chile is expected to adapt a more structured 4-2-3-1 formation that aims to provide defensive stability while allowing for quick counterattacks:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Bravo |
| Right Back | Isla |
| Center Back | Diaz |
| Center Back | Lichnovsky |
| Left Back | Suazo |
| Defensive Midfield | Pulgar |
| Defensive Midfield | Echeverria |
| Right Wing | Davila |
| Attacking Midfield | Sanchez |
| Left Wing | Diaz |
| Striker | Vargas |
Key tactical considerations:
- Alexis Sanchez will operate in a central playmaking role behind the striker
- Eduardo Vargas leads the line as the primary goal threat
- The double pivot of Pulgar and Echeverria aims to nullify Argentina’s midfield creativity
- Mauricio Isla’s experience provides defensive stability on the right flank
- Gabriel Suazo offers attacking support from the left-back position
H2H Stats
The head-to-head record strongly favors Argentina in this historic rivalry. Of the 17 official encounters between these two nations:
- Argentina has won 8 matches
- Chile has won just 1 match
- 8 matches have ended in draws
This statistical dominance reflects Argentina’s traditional superiority in South American football, though recent years have seen more competitive encounters between these teams.
Recent Meetings
| Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|
| June 3, 2022 | Finalissima | Argentina 3-0 Chile |
| January 27, 2022 | World Cup Qualifier | Argentina 2-1 Chile |
| June 14, 2021 | Copa America | Argentina 1-1 Chile |
| March 26, 2020 | World Cup Qualifier | Chile 1-2 Argentina |
| July 6, 2019 | Copa America | Argentina 2-1 Chile |
Notable trends:
- Argentina is unbeaten in their last five encounters with Chile
- Chile has scored in three of the last five matches against Argentina
- Argentina has averaged 2 goals per game in recent meetings
- Matches between these sides tend to be physically intense with a high card count
- Set pieces have been decisive in several recent encounters
Historical Copa America Context
The Copa America history between these nations includes some dramatic chapters:
- Chile defeated Argentina on penalties in both the 2015 and 2016 Copa America finals
- These victories represented Chile’s first-ever major international trophies
- Argentina has since defeated Chile in the 2019 Copa America third-place playoff
- The most recent Copa America meeting (2021) ended in a 1-1 draw
Argentina vs Chile: When and Where to Watch?
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, June 26, 2023
- Venue: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, United States
- Kickoff Time: 2:00 am (GMT)
Broadcast Information
United States viewers have multiple options to catch this exciting clash:
- English Television Broadcast: Fox Sports
- Spanish Television Broadcast: TUDN
- Streaming Option: Fubo TV app
International viewers should check their local sports networks for broadcast information, as coverage varies by region.
Stadium Information
The MetLife Stadium in New Jersey provides an impressive setting for this South American showdown:
- Capacity: 82,500 spectators
- Surface: FieldTurf playing surface
- Notable Feature: One of the most expensive stadiums ever built ($1.6 billion)
- Previous Major Events: Hosted the Copa America Centenario final in 2016
Key Player Battles
Messi vs. Chilean Defense
Lionel Messi remains Argentina’s primary threat despite his advancing age. His ability to find space between the lines and create scoring opportunities will be crucial. Chile’s central defensive pairing of Diaz and Lichnovsky must maintain constant communication and awareness to limit Messi’s influence.
In recent meetings, Chile has attempted to manage Messi through:
- Close marking by defensive midfielders
- Tactical fouls to disrupt his rhythm
- Compressing space between the defense and the midfield
- Double-teaming in dangerous areas
Alexis Sanchez vs. Argentina Midfield
Alexis Sanchez, despite being in the later stages of his career, remains Chile’s creative fulcrum. His experience and technical ability make him dangerous when finding pockets of space. Argentina’s double pivot of De Paul and Lo Celso will need to track his movements and restrict his time on the ball.
Sanchez’s effectiveness will depend on:
- His physical condition after playing a full match against Peru
- Support from teammates making intelligent runs
- Finding space between Argentina’s defensive lines
- Set-piece delivery opportunities
Eduardo Vargas vs. Argentine Center Backs
Eduardo Vargas has historically performed well for Chile in major tournaments. His movement and finishing ability make him Chile’s main goal threat. Argentina’s central defensive partnership of Romero and Li. Martinez must remain vigilant against his clever runs behind the defensive line.
This battle will be influenced by:
- Service quality from Chile’s creative players
- Vargas’s movement to create separation from defenders
- Martinez’s anticipation and reading of the game
- Defensive communication between Argentina’s backline
Tactical Analysis
Argentina’s Approach
Under Lionel Scaloni, Argentina has evolved into a more balanced team than in previous years:
- Possession-based build-up with patient circulation of the ball
- Quick transitions when opportunities arise
- Structured pressing to regain possession in advantageous areas
- Set-piece prowess with numerous aerial threats
- Flexible positional rotations, especially in midfield areas
Argentina’s expected approach includes:
- Building attacks through De Paul and Lo Celso
- Utilizing Di Maria’s crossing ability from wide areas
- Creating space for Messi to operate between the lines
- Alvarez’s movement to stretch Chile’s defensive line
- Defensive solidity as a platform for attacks
Chile’s Likely Strategy
Ricardo Gareca will likely adopt a more cautious approach given the quality of the opposition:
- Compact defensive block to limit space between the lines
- Counter-attacking opportunities utilizing the pace of their forwards
- Set-piece focus as a primary source of goal-scoring opportunities
- Targeted pressing rather than a high-intensity approach throughout
- Direct play to bypass Argentina’s midfield press
Chile’s tactical plan may include:
- Physical approach to disrupt Argentina’s rhythm
- Low defensive block with quick transitions forward
- Isolating Argentine fullbacks in defensive situations
- Maximizing set-piece opportunities
- Protecting yellow-carded players from suspension risks
Current Form Analysis
Argentina’s Recent Performances
The reigning World Cup champions have maintained strong form in recent outings:
- Won 2-0 against Canada in their Copa America opener
- Defeated Guatemala 4-1 in a pre-tournament friendly
- Defeated Ecuador 1-0 in World Cup qualifying
- Defeated Brazil 1-0 in World Cup qualifying
- Drew 0-0 with Paraguay in World Cup qualifying
These results demonstrate Argentina’s consistency, though some performances have been less convincing than others.
Chile’s Recent Performances
Chile’s form has been more inconsistent in recent matches:
- Drew 0-0 with Peru in their Copa America opener
- Defeated Paraguay 3-0 in a pre-tournament friendly
- Lost 3-0 to Albania in a friendly
- Lost 3-2 to France in a friendly
- Drew 0-0 with Paraguay in World Cup qualifying
This mixed form illustrates Chile’s transition period, with flashes of quality undermined by defensive vulnerabilities.
Tournament Implications
Argentina’s Position
- Currently has 3 points from one match
- A win would virtually guarantee qualification to the knockout stages
- Currently sits top of Group A
- Goal difference of +2 provides additional advantage
- Defending their Copa America title from 2021
Chile’s Position
- Currently has 1 point from one match
- Cannot afford a loss as it would significantly damage their qualification hopes
- Currently in third place in Group A
- Goal difference of 0 means they need scoring solutions
- Need at least 4 points to have a realistic chance of qualification
Group A Standings
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | GF | GA | GD | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | +2 | 3 |
| Peru | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Chile | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Canada | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | -2 | 0 |
FAQs
- Is Lionel Messi fit to play against Chile?
Yes, Lionel Messi has been confirmed fit for the match against Chile despite suffering an injury scare in Argentina’s previous game against Canada. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has recovered and is expected to lead the team.
- What happens if Argentina wins this match?
If Argentina defeats Chile, they will secure 6 points from two matches, which would virtually guarantee their progression to the knockout stages of the Copa America tournament.
- Why has Chile struggled to score in recent Copa America matches?
Chile’s goal-scoring drought in recent Copa America matches can be attributed to several factors, including aging attacking players, tactical transitions under different managers, and facing strong defensive opponents. They have now gone three consecutive Copa America matches without scoring.
- How important is this match for both teams?
This match is critically important for both sides. For Argentina, a win secures their path to the knockout stages. For Chile, avoiding defeat is essential to maintain realistic qualification hopes. The historical rivalry adds further significance to the encounter.
- Who is the referee for the Argentina vs Chile match?
The referee appointments are typically announced closer to match day. FIFA and CONMEBOL select officials based on experience and neutrality to ensure fair officiating for such high-profile encounters.
- Has Chile ever beaten Argentina in a Copa America final?
Yes, Chile has defeated Argentina in Copa America finals. Most notably, Chile won consecutive Copa America titles by beating Argentina on penalties in both the 2015 and 2016 finals, which were significant achievements in Chilean football history.
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Conclusion
The clash between the Chile national football team and Argentina national football team represents more than just another Copa America group stage match. It embodies a historic rivalry between two proud footballing nations with contrasting current fortunes. Argentina enters as favorites, bolstered by their world champion status and the presence of Lionel Messi, who continues to defy age with his remarkable performances.
Chile faces an uphill battle but shouldn’t be underestimated. Their experienced squad knows how to perform on the big stage, as evidenced by their back-to-back Copa America triumphs in 2015 and 2016. However, their recent goal-scoring struggles present a significant concern against Argentina’s organized defense.
The tactical battle between Scaloni and Gareca will be fascinating to observe, with both coaches having to make crucial decisions regarding lineup selection and strategic approach. Argentina’s superior head-to-head record provides psychological advantage, but tournament football often produces unexpected results.
As the teams prepare to face off at the impressive MetLife Stadium, fans worldwide can anticipate a match filled with technical quality, competitive spirit, and perhaps moments of individual brilliance that decide the outcome. Whether Argentina can take a significant step toward defending their Copa America crown or Chile can revitalize their campaign with a statement result, this clash promises to be a compelling chapter in the storied history between these South American rivals.
