Julián Alvarez has become Argentina's key weapon against Chile as the world champions prepare for their upcoming World Cup qualifier on June 6. The Manchester City striker scored in both previous encounters against "La Roja" during the qualification campaign.
Looking at recent form, the contrast between these South American rivals couldn't be more stark. Argentina demolished Brazil 4-1 in their last outing, while Chile struggled to a goalless draw against Ecuador.
"We're creating a perfect balance between attack and defense," an Argentina team source might say, considering they've netted an impressive 14 goals in their last six matches.
Ricardo Gareca's Chile have serious offensive issues to solve. Despite dominating possession (60%) against Ecuador, they managed just two shots on target from 16 attempts. Their record of 10 goals in six matches looks decent until you consider they've leaked 8 at the other end.
Do they have any reason for optimism? Hardly. The head-to-head record shows Chile haven't beaten Argentina since before 2019, with Argentina winning three and drawing three of their last six meetings.
Their most recent clash in September 2024 ended in a comfortable 3-0 victory for "La Albiceleste" with Alexis Mac Allister and Alvarez both finding the net. Mac Allister also scored in Argentina's Brazil demolition, continuing his excellent international form.
Interestingly, Argentina have scored in every single one of their last six matches across all competitions. With Chile's defensive vulnerabilities, can Gareca find a way to keep a clean sheet against the free-scoring world champions?
Based on current form, Argentina look set to edge this one by a single goal. Their defensive solidity combined with clinical finishing should be enough to secure all three points in Santiago.
