Group A heavyweights Chile and Argentina will meet Tuesday evening in a renewal of one of the most underrated rivalries in soccer. These teams met in back-to-back Copa America finals in 2015 and 2016, with Chile winning both contests. However, Chile has not defeated Argentina in an international match since that 2016 Copa America final with three losses and three draws in the subsequent six games.
Here’s what you need to know for the match, with odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Chile v. Argentina
Date: Tuesday, June 25
Time: 9 p.m. ET
TV channel: FS1, Univision
Livestream: fuboTV, TUDN
Moneyline odds
Chile: +700
Draw: +320
Argentina: -215
Moneyline pick: Argentina -215
Chile is coming into this game after an underwhelming showing in the opening match against Peru, which finished 0-0. It was a physical, sloppy contest that saw the favorites miss some important chances to grab all three points. Argentina was in a bit of a battle with Canada but eventually broke through in the second half and should’ve had more goals. There’s probably more desperation for Chile but Argentina can secure a spot in the knockout stage with a win.
There are no injury concerns for Chile outside of Diego Valdes, who left the Peru match early. Alexis Sanchez, Erick Pulgar and Victor Davila all picked up yellow cards in the opener and are at risk for suspension for the third game should they get another card in this one. Lionel Messi went down late in the Canada game but has been cleared to go.
In previous years, taking Chile as a double chance would be profitable in this particular competition given Argentina’s struggles. However, the monkey is now off Messi’s back, which has allowed him and the team to play much more freely. I think Argentina gets the win here and secures qualification to the next round.