Copa America Final sealed with Argentina facing Chile

So, then. The final of the Copa America is now set. It’s been an exciting tournament so far and while a few sides have caught the eye like Mexico, there has only really been two proper stand-out teams: Argentina and Chile. And it’ll be that very duo fighting it out to lift the trophy this weekend.

The two fierce rivals and foes won’t be unfamiliar with each other, either. You’ll remember that Lionel Messi’s side and the Chileans have faced each other already in the competition - with Argentina prevailing. La Albiceleste won the game 2-1. Angel Di Maria and Ever Banega scored and assisted for one another before Chile pulled one back in the final minute of the game.

And, of course, it was only last year that both sides came up against each other in the same game. The 2015 Copa America final saw a tense affair head to penalties and Chile come out winners. So it’s poised at one result apiece at the moment between the two teams.

So who is likely to pick up the trophy in the coming days? Well, somewhat predictably Argentina go into the game as red hot favourites with bookmakers and pundits alike. And with little wonder. A freak advertising hoardings accident may have seen one of their main strikers - Ezquiel Lavezzi - break his elbow, but when you can call upon the likes of Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Aguero to play up front, you have to be pretty confident of outscoring the other side.

But don’t write off Juan Antonio Pizzi’s men just yet. With the world class Arsenal striker Alexis Sanchez in their ranks, Chile are more than capable of pulling off a minor upset and retaining their crown. 

Our guess? We can’t look past the embarrassment of riches that the famous light blue and white stripes can call upon. But it’s not going to be a walkover. Expect a nervy and tense opener that kicks into life as the game progresses. We’re calling it… Argentina will win in extra time. But only just.

One thing we can guarantee you, though? It’s going to be a cracker of a game. These are two big footballing nations fighting for pride and prize and both will go at this 100%. We’re excited. How about you...?