Chile vs. Paraguay – 2021 Copa America (June 24)

Argentina may be out in front in Zona Sul at the 2021 Copa America, but both Chile and Paraguay have shown enough in their opening games to suggest that they could enjoy a successful tournament.

Chile has played one game more than its opponent on Thursday and is already assured a place in the quarterfinals. But a higher finish in the group section should mean a kinder draw in the next round, so expect both sides to put in a good shift here.

I’m going to take a look at the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, so read on for my Chile vs. Paraguay betting pick.

MyBookie has made Chile the favorite to pick up three more points here, but there is a question over the squad ahead of the game. There have been reported breaches of COVID protocols, and it is unclear just what starting eleven will take to the pitch on Thursday.

Paraguay will want to take advantage of that and the fitness of the Chile squad, which is on the older side compared to many at the tournament.

Chile started the tournament with a good draw against Argentina after going down to a Lionel Messi goal in the first half. The win over Bolivia in the next game would have been expected but made the headlines worldwide as it came down to a strike from England-born striker Ben Brereton.

He was unable to repeat the feat against Uruguay in the third game, but a draw saw Chile through to the next stage with this fixture against Paraguay to spare. It hasn’t been the most impressive run of performances from La Roja, but there will still be a belief that this squad can go far this year.

He has been far more important than Arturo Vidal so far and can orchestrate most of the attacking moves from his central position.

Paraguay still has a game to go after this meeting with Chile in Brasilia but will know that it only gets tougher from here on in. The impressive victory over Bolivia to kick things off was needed if Eduardo Berizzo’s men were to progress from the group.

Argentina was always going to be a tough proposition.

But with Bolivia looking like it will exit the tournament without picking up a single point, this could be a chance for Paraguay to experiment a little before the knockout rounds.

Miguel Almiron has disappointed so far, but another winger – San Lorenzo’s Angel Romero – has come to the fore. He scored two in the win against Bolivia and will probably be the main threat on Thursday. Whether he can inspire a win against Chile is another question entirely, though.

With Chile having drawn four of its last five games by the same 1-1 scoreline, I am tempted to choose that option here – especially considering its quarterfinal berth has already been booked.

But, even if Alexis Sanchez’s injury is too severe to allow him to take part in this game, I feel as though Martin Lasarte’s side can prevail. Ben Brereton looks like he is really enjoying the experience of playing in a Copa America and has been able to use his strength to good effect. It may not be a high-scoring game, but I think that Chile will win again and go through as Zona Sul runners up.