The Argentina national team is already qualified for the 2022 World Cup, but they’d love to contribute to one of their rivals missing out as they travel to Chile on Thursday. The reigning Copa America champs are 8-5-0 and in second place in the table, while the hosts are one of six teams separated by four points and competing for just two spots. Chile enter the day at 4-4-6 and a point behind fifth place.
Here’s are storylines, how you can watch the match and more:
How to watch and odds
- Date: Thursday, Jan. 27 | Time: 7 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Zorros del Desierto — Calama, Chile
- TV: Fubo Sports Network | Live stream: fuboTV (Try for free)
- Odds: Chile +160; Draw +205; Argentina +170 (via Caesars Sportsbook)
Team news
Chile: It’s a veteran-filled team as usual for the Chileans with eight players aged 32 or over. There will be key minutes for guys such as Claudio Bravo, Gary Medel and Alexis Sanchez, but do keep an eye on Bren Brereton. The England-born Blackburn Rovers striker has made an impressive impact with three goals in nine games for the national team. He’s been on absolute fire with his English club, scoring 20 goals in 24 Championship games, and he’s expected to see significant minutes here.
Argentina: There are some big names missing, and none are bigger than that of Lionel Messi who just returned to action with PSG after testing positive for COVID-19. Also missing is stud defender Cristian Romero, but those two centerpieces being absent provides opportunities for some others as Lionel Scaloni looks for depth. River Plate rising star Julian Alvarez, who is expected to join Manchester City, could get some significant minutes off the bench in place of Lautaro Martinez. Additionally, Aston Villa midfielder Emiliano Buendia is in line for his first cap. In defense, expect it to be Nicolas Otamendi and probably German Pezzella.
Prediction
No Messi, but Argentina still offer plenty going forward. They get their goal, but a late equalizer rescues a point for Chile. Pick: Chile 1, Argentina 1
