Preview for Chile v Argentina
Chile are in the difficult position of needing to beat world champions Argentina if they want to keep alive their dream of qualifying for next summer’s World Cup finals.
Chile have endured a miserable qualifying campaign, winning just two of their 14 games. Their hopes of automatic qualification are over but they retain hope of finishing in seventh place in the 10-team table and securing a playoff spot.
They are five points adrift of Venezuela with four games to go and realistically require maximum points from tomorrow’s game with Argentina and Tuesday’s equally daunting trip to Bolivia for a clash played at altitude.
It appears a long shot but experienced midfielder Arturo Vidal was in typically bullish mood.
The former Juventus and Barcelona man said: “Clearly, against Argentina we have our last chance. If we win the three points we will surely qualify.
“Besides, against Argentina it will be easier than the game we play in Bolivia. Against Argentina we always play well, and more with our people. I have all my faith.”
Chile boss Ricardo Gareca is also in last chance saloon. The Chilean Football Federation wanted to sack him in October but were unable to due to the size of the compensation that he would have been entitled to.
That pay-out clause expires as soon as qualification is mathematically impossible, meaning he may be out of a job this time next week.
It’s so nice to see him with us 🥹 pic.twitter.com/j8E4FlYFhx
— Selección Argentina in English (@AFASeleccionEN) June 4, 2025
Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni has no such worries after guiding his country to World Cup and Copa America success.
The Albiceleste have already secured their place at next summer’s showpiece in the United States, Mexico and Canada having won 10 of their 14 games.
They will also be boosted by the return of Lionel Messi, who missed the doubleheader in March against Uruguay and Brazil due to injury.
