The group stage clash between the finalists at the 2015 Copa America, Chila and Argentina, ended in favor of Argentina this time, and without the best player in the world. La Albiceleste prevailed 2-1 over the side that defeated them in penalties last year even though reigning Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi remained on the bench with a hamstring injury.
Even though they didn't have Messi, Argentina did have Angel di Maria, which was enough. He first put Argentina ahead by beating Claudio Bravo to the near post on the counter.
Angel Di Maria scores his 17th international goal to put Argentina in front. #ARGvCHI #MyCopaColors https://t.co/pczZqGzPlJ
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 7, 2016
Then he dished to Ever Banega, who also beat Claudio Bravo to the near post on the counter (via a deflection this time though).
Ever Banega sends a deflected shot past Claudio Bravo for his 1st career #CopaAmerica goal. #ARGvCHI #MyCopaColors https://t.co/aT8YbLaeYw
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 7, 2016
Chile were able to pull one back at the death, but it was too little, too late.
For those who missed it, here's a look at Jose Fuenzalida's late consolation goal for Chile. #ARGvCHI #MyCopaColors https://t.co/EgWj6eewph
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 7, 2016
This win puts Argentina squarely in the driver's seat to finish first in the group, while Chile will need good fortune and an Argentinian screw-up to take the lead. This is important because the second-place team in Group D will likely face Mexico, one of the hottest teams in the world, in the quarterfinals.
Contact The18 Staff Writer Sam Klomhaus at Klomhaus@The18.com or follow him on Twitter @SamKlomhaus
