Chile were the defending champions of last year’s standard edition of the Copa America. They outlasted Argentina on penalty kicks to lift the cup and they’re looking as strong as ever heading into this year’s special tournament. With a few world-class players on their side along with a stable of proven supporting players, Chile have to be considered one of the few favorites to win the whole thing. The same grit and guile that helped them last year should serve them well again as they look to go back-to-back as Copa America winners.

By the Numbers

World Ranking: 3
Copa America Record: 27W-14D-27L
Best Copa America Finish: 1st in 2015
Top Goal Scorer: Alexis Sanchez (31)

Recent Form:
2-1 L vs. Jamaica – Friendly
4-1 W at Venezuela – WCQ
2-1 L vs. Argentina – WCQ
3-0 L at Uruguay – WCQ
1-1 D vs. Colombia – WCQ

2016 Chile Home Jersey

Key Players

When you think of Chilean players, two superstars come to mind. Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez and Bayern Munich’s Arturo Vidal are the two most recognizable and accomplished players in the country’s history. Sanchez is the team’s dynamic attacker that the majority of the play will run through in the final third. He’s capable of finishing just as many chances as he creates. Sanchez is a complete attacking threat, while Vidal is the team’s backbone in the center of the midfield. Both will be instrumental in the team’s success just like they were in 2015.

Group Stage Schedule

Chile had the misfortune of drawing Argentina in their group, but with Panama and Bolivia joining the two giants of the sport, it should be nothing but a formality for the defending champions.

• Monday, June 6 — Argentina vs. Chile, 10:00 p.m. ET — Fox Sports 1
• Friday, June 10 — Chile vs. Bolivia, 7:00 p.m. ET — FOX
• Tuesday, June 14 — Chile vs. Panama, 8:00 p.m. ET — Fox Sports 1

New York City Spot

Head to Astoria to cheer on la Roja at San Antonio Bakery, where the empanadas are plentiful and the Chilean hotdogs are topped with guacamole and garlic sauce.

Closing Thoughts

Not a lot has changed since Chile lifted the Copa America trophy last year. It’s a new country and new competitors this year, but they seem to be right in the thick of the race again. There’s always a chance that complacency sets in and hurts them, but if they can avoid that, they should be one of the top contenders for the title once again.