FIFA World Cup 2010: Brazil takes on Chile, Knockout match preview
Brazil must forget what happened in their final group match against Portugal and get ready to face Chile in the 6th match of round of 16, in the Fifa World Cup 2010.
Brazil had been scintillating to say the least in their first 2 games of group stages; they humbled the North Koreans in the first game 2 goals to 1. There was still some work to be done though, and the problem areas looked to have been addressed by Coach Dunga ahead of their 2nd game. Brazil were absolutely a different class in their 2nd match that was against Ivory Coast. There was the same magic which the world has become so accustomed to. It was a mixed game for Kaka though after finding his touch Kaka was the most influential player in the game setting up 2 of the 3 goals. But an unfortunate red card meant he missed out the all important game against Portugal, and many argued that had he been there it would have been an altogether different Brazil team, that seemed to have gone to sleep in a dull 2nd half.
Including Brazil all 5 South American teams in the world cup have made it to the final 16, but one would have to make way, as Brazil take on Chile.
Chile although not as accomplished as their continental neighbours, have gathered applause from all corners for their flamboyant and attractive brand of football in the World Cup. Playing mostly with the adventurous formation of 3-3-1-3, Chile has taken many by surprise.
But being too adventurous may play into Brazil’s hands, the former world champions seem to play better against teams that look to attack. But when the park-the-bus approach is employed Brazil does find it hard to penetrate as witnessed against Portugal.
In the World Cup Qualifiers Brazil thrived on the over attacking play from Chile beating them 3-0 and 4-2. The two wins in qualifying extended Brazil’s impeccable record against Chile to seven consecutive wins. As far as their World Cup record is concerned Brazil has beaten Chile 5 out of 5 times, including 1962. When they met in the semi-final, Brazil won 4-2 that day, and later in 1998 these 2 teams met at the same stage and once again Brazil won 4-1.
Kaka will return from a one-match ban, while Elano has recovered from an ankle injury, after missing the Portugal game. Robinho who also was not in the starting lineup in their final group game due to a muscular pain will also be available. Felipe Melo has a sprained ankle and may not start, while Julio Baptista is suffering from a knee problem.
Chile meanwhile will be missing 3 key players, midfielder Marco Estrada, who due to poor refereeing was sent off against Spain, will serve his one match ban, while defenders Waldo Ponce and Gary Medel are suspended following 2 yellow cards. However, Matias Fernandez and Carlos Carmona will be available after serving their one match suspensions.
Chile Coach Marcelo Bielsa will have to decide if he wants to play target-man Humberto Suazo, who is short of match fitness, or keep his faith with Jorge Valdivia.
Brazil have three players who are just one booking away from missing the all important quarterfinal, Luis Fabiano , Filipe Melo and Ramires, while Chile have Suazo, Valdivia on a yellow.
On paper it should be another free flowing win for Brazil, who have certainly looked like world beaters, and Chile well they have some rare flair about them but beating Brazil may be a step too far for them. Considering their dismal record against Brazil in the past they may see this as their best opportunity to get one over their more accomplished opponents.
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