Argentina VS Chile Match Prediction

Last year's final between these sides ended in a 0-0 draw, with Chile triumphing on penalties thanks to the heroics of their goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, who is also the captain of the team. 

Chile have only ever won seven matches against Argentina, but in recent years they have had a better head-to-head record, although they have only won twice in the last six meetings. The nations also played in the first round of group games, with Argentina sealing a 2-1 win on that occasion, while Argentina also triumphed 2-1 when they met Chile at the 2014 World Cup.

Argentina v Chile: Prediction

A 23-year wait for a major international tournament victory has caused plenty of concern for Argentina, but after reaching two finals in the last two years they look ready to take the next step. The chance to take revenge on Chile for last year's shock win should also motivate Messi and Co, but Chile cannot be underestimated. This is likely to be a fantastic match, with both sides having plenty of attacking potential, so there should be goals.

Argentina v Chile: Betting Tips

A repeat of last year's 0-0 draw appears to be highly unlikely, with odds of 8/1 still not providing value for a bore draw. Argentina have been made the favourites at odds of 5/6, while Chile can be backed at as big as 4/1, which looks good value for the defending champions to win in 90 minutes. The draw is available at 13/5 and could also be a sensible selection for this game.

On the score/win double market, Messi to score in an Argentina victory is a very juicy 2/1, especially appealing as Messi has scored in each of his country's last three matches.

Argentina's 4-0 win over United States in the semi-final was a show of ferocious strength, with captain Lionel Messi breaking Gabriel Batistuta's goalscoring record in the process.

Messi's gorgeous free-kick took him to 55 international goals, with Gonzalo Higuain continuing his fine form in the tournament with a brace. Gerardo Martino is unlikely to make many changes after such a comprehensive victory, although Ezequiel Lavezzi is out of the final after breaking his elbow in a freak accident in the last round. Sergio Aguero and Javier Pastore are the most likely candidates to take Lavezzi's place.

Argentina likely XI

Romero; Mercado, Otamendi, Funes Mori, Rojo; Fernandez, Mascherano; Di Maria, Pastore, Messi; Higuain.

Chile kept on track to defend their title with a 2-0 defeat of Colombia in their semi-final, setting up a rematch of last year's final, which Chile won on penalties.

Arturo Vidal will return to the Chile starting line-up after missing the semi-final through suspension, while striker Eduardo Vargas will continue to lead the line for Chile after hitting four goals in the quarter-final thrashing of Mexico.

Chile likely XI

Bravo; Isla, Medel, Jara, Beausejour; Aranguiz, Vidal, Hernandez; Fuenzalida, Vargas, Sanchez.

Argentina seemed to underestimate Chile in last year\'s final and they will not make the same mistake again, with Messi in determined form after breaking Batistuta\'s record. Chile\'s 7-0 win over Mexico in the quarter-finals showed off their attacking talent, but they will find Argentina to be much more resilient. Argentina to have the edge in what could be a classic match.

Chile have only ever beaten Argentina on seven occasions, losing a whopping 59 times against their final opponents.