Argentina Aims To Secure Knockout Spot Against Struggling Chile.

Argentina is poised to secure their spot in the knockout stage of the 2024 Copa America with a win over Chile at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The reigning champions got off to a strong start with a 2-0 victory over Canada, courtesy of goals from Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez. Chile, on the other hand, drew with Peru, failing to score for the third consecutive Copa America match.

Chile's head coach, Ricardo Gareca, has made history by becoming the fourth coach to lead his team in five consecutive Copa America tournaments. However, his team's recent form has been underwhelming, with only two wins in their last six matches. Argentina, meanwhile, is riding a six-match winning streak and has never lost to Chile in regular time in the Copa America.

A win for Argentina would ensure their progression to the knockout phase for the 14th consecutive time, excluding their withdrawal from the 2001 Copa America. If Peru and Canada draw, Argentina would top their group for the first time since 2015 and 2016. Lionel Messi made history in the opening match, surpassing Sergio Livingstone's record with his 35th Copa America appearance.

Chile's starting lineup may feature veteran goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, who became the oldest player to feature in the Copa America this century at 41 years old.

Victor Davila, Alexis Sanchez, and Erick Pulgar are at risk of missing the final group match if they receive a yellow card.

A win for Argentina would solidify their position as tournament favorites, while Chile will be desperate to turn their fortunes around. With history on their side, Argentina is poised to secure their place in the knockout stage and continue their quest for another Copa America title.

Argentina's dominance over Chile is evident in their head-to-head record, with 9 wins and 8 draws in 19 matches. Chile's last win over Argentina came in 2016, and they have struggled to find the back of the net in recent matches.

As the teams prepare to face off, the stakes are high, and the tension is palpable. Will Chile be able to break their scoring drought and pull off an upset, or will Argentina continue their winning streak and secure their place in the knockout stage? 

Chile possible starting lineup:
Bravo, Isla, Lichnovsky, Diaz, Suazo, Echeverria, Pulgar, Davila, Sanchez, Diaz, Vargas

Argentina possible starting lineup:
E. Martinez, Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna, Di Maria, De Paul, Lo Celso, Mac Allister, Messi, Alvarez