Chile vs Argentina Prediction: The defending champions filled with momentum this time around

Defending champions Argentina hope to continue their fine start in their title defence when they battle 2016 champions Chile at the 82,500-capacity MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, United States.  If Argentina win this game, it will be their 14th consecutive knockout round. Below are previews, match facts, possible starting 11, expert betting tips, and odds.

Chile

Chile were held to a goalless draw in their opening game of this tournament by Peru. La Roja had 60% possession of the ball but could not break Peru’s defence. They fired 10 shots, but only 2 were on target. They will now look forward to getting their first win against the defending champions. Chile have had a great history playing against Argentina, beating them in both the 2015 and 2016 finals. They are unbeaten in 3 of the last 5 games played against the defending champions. 

Chile sit joint-second on the table with 1 point. They must do everything possible to get at least a point here to continue their qualification fight. However, Diego Valdes could miss this game after being substituted at half-time in their last game. 

Argentina

Argentina started their title defence journey with a 2-0 win over newcomers Canada. A win for the defending champions would automatically send them to the quarterfinals for the 14th time in a row. La Selección have now won their last 6 games. They have also lost just 2 of their previous 56 matches. Their record in the Copa America is commendable as they have won their last 7 Copa America games. They are currently top of Group A with 3 maximum points.

Possible Starting 11

Chile — Claudio Bravo, Mauricio Isla, Guillermo Maripan, Paulo Diaz, Gabriel Suazo, Marcelino Nunez, Erick Pulgar, Victor Davila, Alexis Sanchez, Diego Valdes, Eduardo Vargas.

Argentina — Martinez, Molina, Romeri, Martinez, Acuna, Pereses, Mac Allister, De Paul, Di Maria, Messi, Alvarez.

Match Facts

• Chile conceded just 3 goals in the last 4 matches.
• Argentina have never lost a game in the Copa America against Chile during regular time.
• Argentina have lost just 2 of their last 56 matches in all competitions.
• Argentina have won their last 7 matches in the Copa America.
• Claudio Bravo (41 years and 69 days) is the oldest player to play at the Copa America this century and the oldest to start in history.
• Chile have failed to remain unbeaten in three matches in all competitions since recording such a feat in November 2022- June 2023 (five games).
• Chile are winless in their last 5 matches when behind or tied in the first half since the 2-0 win over Peru in October 2023.

Expert Betting Tips

Argentina are undoubtedly the favourite to secure the win here, but Chile have always been a hard nut to crack for the Argentine. So, I expect a tough clash here that will result in both sides finding the net, and Lionel Messi will deliver his side and get the win to advance to the next round.

• Anytime Goalscorer: Lionel Messi for 2.10 odds
• Over 2.5 for 2.11 odds
• BTTS for 2.33 odds