In the CONMEBOL 2018 World Cup qualifiers, Argentina will host Chile at El Monumental this Thursday, March 23, 2017 (4:30 PM Pacific). The match will be between two of the best teams in South America over the last few years and should be one of the best International games this weekend.
Argentina is currently struggling in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying currently in fifth place with 19 points, out of a direct spot in the 2018 World Cup. This game is crucial for the ‘albicelestes’ with Chile just a point away in fourth place with 20 points. The attack will be the key to Argentina’s play with players like Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria, Gonzalo Higuain and Lionel Messi leading the way. Defense is a liability for Edgardo Bauza’s squad with Nicolas Otamendi and Marco Rojo not being the safest options in the back-line.
Javier Mascherano can also prove to be a liability in his defensive midfield role with his pace diminishing as well as his defensive capabilities. This game will be far from easy for Argentina, but the home-field advantage can prove to be a key factor in the match. The last time these two teams played each other, Argentina did have the advantage winning 2-1 away from home with goals from Gabriel Mercado and Angel Di Maria.
Chile has been doing well currently in fourth place with 20 points in the CONMEBOL 2018 World Cup Qualifying stage. Juan Antonio Pizzi will be without some key players in this match with the absence of Marcelo Diaz, Gary Medel and Arturo Vidal. Alexis Sanchez will have a lot of weight on his shoulders for this game, much like he is accustomed to having for Arsenal. Four Liga MX players will also be in this Chile squad in Nicolas Castillo, Eduardo Vargas, Francisco Silva and Martin Rodriguez.
Among the most interesting is Pumas UNAM’s Nicolas Castillo who has eight goals for the felines after 11 weeks of play in the Liga MX. The absence of Arturo Vidal may prove to be a big blow in midfield for the Copa America champions and can prove to be the deciding factor in the game. The match should be one of the best this week and should present a hard-fought encounter at El Monumental.
How to Watch Argentina vs Chile
The Argentina vs Chile match will be broadcast this Thursday, March 23 at 4:30 PM Pacific:
TV Schedule: beIN Sports En Espanol
Watch Live Online: Sling TV (Watch 7 Days Free), Fubo TV (Watch 7 Days Free)
