Chile vs United States: Preview and Prediction
Chile vs United States. The first international match of 2015 for both countries, Chile host the United States at the Estadio El Teniente. The United States comes into the match as the favorite with manager Jurgen Klinsmann calling up a mixture of known and unknown domestic stars.
La Roja, like the United States, have called up many unknown players into the squad. Stars such as Claudio Bravo, Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sánchez will not be joining the side, with manager Jorge Sampaoli choosing only domestic players to lead the way for their country.
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Chile will be coming into the match looking to continue its 2014 form into the New Year. After making it through the group stage at the 2014 World Cup, the nation lost in the Round of 16 to Brazil on penalties. However, Chile would end the year losing only once in six matches. La Roja will also be looking ahead to this summer when it host the 2015 Copa America.
The USA come into this match looking for a change in fortune. The American’s have failed to win in its last four matches, which includes losses to Columbia and Ireland in its last two games. However, unlike Chile, the United States have many matches still on the cards. Six friendlies remain between the Chile match and the Gold Cup this summer, with most taking place in Europe.
Key Stats
- The most capped player on the Chilean roster is Mark González (48).
- The United States scored in all but two matches last year (Ukraine & Germany).
- The USA have an all-time record of 3-4-2 against Chile.
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Chile will be heavily relying on veteran midfielder Mark González. González is easily the most capped player on this roster, with his 48 more than double the nearest teammate. He also has the most prestigious club career of any other player. With stints at Liverpool, Real Betis and CSKA Moscow, González is easily the leader in this squad.
Jermaine Jones will be expected to help lead the United States backline. The experienced midfielder turned defender will be asked to help anchor a backline that includes only one other capped player in Matt Besler. If the United States are to play well against Chile, Jones will need to anchor the side at the back.
Another point of emphasis for Jones will be to remain out of the book. He is notoriously known for his temper and ill-timed yellow cards, something Jones will need to reduce if he is to become the leader at the back.
Both nations will look to take this match. For Chile it’s a chance to evaluate some of its unknown talent. For the United States, finding the right mixture of youth and experience will be crucial as the side heads toward this summer’s Gold Cup as well as next summer’s Copa América Centenario. Both nations will expect results from this match, but only one side can.
Prediction
Chile – 2, United States – 3