Photo: Alexis (Getty Images)
In a group where Chile is seen as potential spoilers, the South Americans can make an ideal start with Spain and Netherlands playing each other on match day one in the group. La Roja are expected to brush aside Australia with their flambuoyant attacking brand of football.
The Socceroos are more than capable of springing a surprise with their passing game but such a result seems unlikely against this impressive attacking team. Both teams have major injury problems. The Australians will be without their star forward Robbie Kruse who picked up an ACL injury while Arturo Vidal did surgery recently on his knee and this fixture may come too soon for the Juventus midfielder.
Jorge Sampaoli has skipper Claudio Bravo in goal with Gary Medel and Gonzalo Jara expected to be in central defense. Chile has two exciting wing backs in Eugenio Mena and Mauricio Isla who will be bombing up and down the flanks for the entire match. If Vidal is not fit then Carlos Carmona and Jorge Valdivia will be in charge in midfield. Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas are expected to provide the threat in front of goal.
The Aussies will call upon Mathew Ryan between the sticks and Matthew Spiranovic leading the defense. Captian Mile Jedinak and Mark Milligan are expected to marshall midfield area while Tim Cahill, Mathew Leckie and Mark Bresciano should provide the goal threat.
The Aussies will always show their bravery and courage but Chile should show their class and prove too strong for them. The attacking talent and ability of Chile is expected to get the better of a relatively inexperienced team selected by Ange Postecoglou. Chile will be looking to Alexis to create the damage while Jedinak and co will be looking to stifle the Barcelona man.
Players to Watch
Australia – Tim Cahill, Mile Jedinak, Matthew Spiranovic.
Chile – Alexis Sanchez, Garay Medel, Eduardo Vargas.
Yashiema Love
Senior Contributor
GiveMeSport Writing Academy
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