Copa America quarter-finals preview: All details here
Argentina are up against Venezuela in a crunch Copa America 2019 quarters battle later tonight. The winner will face hosts Brazil in the semis. Meanwhile, heavy-weights Chile and Colombia are also in action with an eye for semi-finals qualification. Two cracking matches are on offer. Here is the detailed match preview.
Colombia start as favorites against Chile
Colombia, who have been spectacular in the Copa America 2019 so far, face a tricky test against Chile at the Corinthians stadium in Sao Paolo. Carlos Quieroz's side goes into the match as the favorites. They have been rock solid at the back so far. The attacking quartet boasts of real quality with players such as James Rodriguez and Radamel Falcao in the mix.
Defending champions Chile have a core group
Two-time defending champions Chile will look to bounce back from the defeat against Uruguay and give their all against the Colombians. The best part about Chile's side is that the core group of players are available. All focus will be on Alexis Sanchez, who has shown form after a disappointing campaign at Manchester United. This will be a game of high tactical prowess.
Dream11: We go in with a 4-3-3 formation
David Ospina leads the goal in this Dream11 side. Gary Medel and Yerry Mina form the central defensive partnership. Guillermo Maripan and Davinson Sanchez are the make-shift full-backs. The mid-field sees Chile's Eric Pulgar set the base. James Rodriguez (vice-captain) and Charles Aranguiz fit in. Alexis Sanchez (captain) is supported by Colombian duo Falcao and Roger Martinez.
Can Messi inspire Argentina?
Argentina were a shadow of themselves in the group stage with some lacklustre outings. Lionel Messi-led Argentina will be wanting to build on the 2-0 win against Qatar. The 14-time winners have seen a 26-year wait for sealing the ultimate prize. Argentina will need to start afresh and get the small things right. A win will see them face tournament favorites Brazil next.
Now it's all or nothing, says Messi
"Now starts another Copa, now it's all or nothing. We needed a game like that [against Qatar], to gain confidence and to be calm. As the games go by, the team has to grow," said Messi ahead of the clash against Venezuela.
Venezuela out to stop Messi & Co.
Messi has three runners-up Copa America medals and one FIFA World Cup finalists medal as well. The 32-year-old GOAT will be desperately seeking to end a trophy drought. Messi has so far been underwhelming in Brazil. Meanwhile, Venezuela will be eyeing to repeat their 3-1 friendly win over Argentina earned in March 2019. Venezuela have been solid defensively and can stake claim here.
Timing of the both the quarters match
The Argentina versus Venezuela match is set to start at 12:30 AM IST. It will be held at the Estadio do Maracana. Meanwhile, the Chile versus Colombia game is at 4:30 AM IST. No channel in India will showcase the matches.
