As the Copa America heats up, the upcoming clash between Canada and Chile promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Scheduled to take place at the Inter & Co Stadium in Florida, this match is crucial for both teams as they aim to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Here's a detailed preview of the match, including team news, form, and predictions.
Match Preview
Canada
Canada made history by securing their first-ever Copa America victory against Peru with a 1-0 win.
The victory, marked by Jonathan David's decisive goal, propelled Canada to second place in Group A. U
nder new head coach Jesse Marsch, Canada initially struggled, failing to score in their first three matches against tough opponents like the Netherlands and France.
However, the win over Peru has boosted their confidence, and another victory against Chile would guarantee their place in the quarter-finals.
Key Players to Watch
Jonathan David: Celebrated his 50th cap with a winning goal against Peru.
Alphonso Davies: Likely to play a more advanced role on the left flank.
Cyle Larin: Expected to partner with David in attack.
Chile
Chile, two-time Copa America champions, are facing the risk of an early exit.
They have only managed one point from their first two games, drawing against Peru and losing narrowly to Argentina.
Ricardo Gareca's side needs a win against Canada and a favourable result from the Peru vs Argentina match to progress.
Chile's main challenge has been their lack of goals, having failed to score in the tournament so far despite several attempts.
Key Players to Watch
Alexis Sanchez: Chile's all-time top scorer and most capped player.
Ben Brereton Diaz: Pushing for a starting spot in attack.
Erick Pulgar: Key midfielder, though one booking away from suspension.
Team News
Canada
Jesse Marsch might make changes following the win over Peru. Derek Cornelius, Liam Millar, and Ismael Kone, who were substituted early in the last match, might be benched.
Kamal Miller could start in defense, and Alphonso Davies might move forward, allowing Richie Laryea to retain his spot at left-back.
Predicted Lineup: Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Miller, Laryea; Osorio, Eustaquio; Buchanan, David, Davies; Larin
Chile
Ricardo Gareca is expected to tweak his lineup to boost their attacking options.
Ben Brereton Diaz may start over Eduardo Vargas or Victor Davila, and Alexis Sanchez will continue in his pivotal number 10 role.
Predicted Lineup: Bravo; Isla, Lichnovsky, Diaz, Suazo; Nunez, Pulgar; Osorio, Sanchez, Brereton Diaz; Vargas
Match Prediction
A tightly contested match is expected, given the stakes for both teams. Chile, with their Copa America experience, might be considered slight favourites, but Canada's recent form and recent historic win could see them earn at least a point.
Canada 
Chile 
