Watch Chile vs Argentina full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 01:00 (GMT) on 26th June 2024
The referee for this match is A. Matonte
Game played at MetLife Stadium
This is a match in South America – Copa America, Group A, Season 2024
Argentina Secures Dramatic Win Over Chile to Reach Copa América Quarter-Finals
Match Summary:
- Score: Argentina 1-0 Chile
- Stadium: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
- Key Event: Lautaro Martínez’s late winner
Match Report:
In a closely contested battle at MetLife Stadium, Argentina clinched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Chile to secure their spot in the Copa América quarter-finals. This win marks Argentina’s 21st triumph in their last 22 international matches.
First Half:
Chile, managed by Argentine Ricardo Gareca, entered the match with a solid defensive strategy. Despite Argentina’s dominance in possession, they found it difficult to penetrate Chile’s compact defense. The game’s first notable attempt came in the 22nd minute when Julián Álvarez’s scuffed shot was comfortably saved by Chile’s veteran goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, who was making his 150th international appearance.
The match turned more physical as it approached the half-hour mark, highlighted by Gabriel Suazo’s challenge on Lionel Messi and a subsequent accidental stamp by Rodrigo De Paul on Suazo. A misplaced clearance by Erick Pulgar nearly gifted Nicolás González a scoring opportunity, but the high bounce allowed Bravo to easily gather González’s header. Messi then showcased his trademark skill with a long-range strike that hit Bravo’s left post just before halftime.
Second Half:
Argentina intensified their attacks immediately after the break. Bravo was forced into action, making crucial saves including a punch away from Nahuel Molina’s shot and a deflection of González’s attempt onto the crossbar. Alexis Mac Allister also missed an opportunity to connect cleanly with a delicate Messi free-kick.
Chile had their moments as well, particularly around the 70th minute when Emiliano Martínez made two important saves against Rodrigo Echeverría, demonstrating why he was awarded the Yashin Trophy last year.
Decisive Moment:
As the match seemed destined for a goalless draw, Argentina’s substitutes made the crucial difference. With only two minutes left on the clock, Lautaro Martínez finished calmly from close range after Giovani Lo Celso’s initial effort was saved by Bravo. The goal stood after a VAR check for offside, sealing Argentina’s hard-fought victory.
Aftermath:
The win confirms Argentina’s place in the quarter-finals with a game to spare, underscoring their strong form and tournament credentials. For Chile, the loss means they must win against Canada in their final group match to avoid their first Copa América group stage exit since 2004.
Key Players:
- Claudio Bravo (Chile): Despite the loss, Bravo’s performance was noteworthy, including several critical saves.
- Lionel Messi (Argentina): Demonstrated his enduring class, hitting the post and orchestrating numerous attacks.
- Lautaro Martínez (Argentina): Came off the bench to score the decisive goal.
Next Fixtures:
- Argentina: Already qualified for the knockout stages, they can approach their next match with less pressure.
- Chile: Must defeat Canada to keep their Copa América campaign alive.
This thrilling match highlighted the high stakes and intense competition typical of the Copa América, with Argentina once again proving their mettle on the international stage.