Chile is set to host Paraguay on Wednesday in an international friendly match at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martinez Pradanos. Both teams are eager to build momentum ahead of the Copa America. Their previous encounter in November ended in a goalless draw, marked by both teams being reduced to 10 men.
Team Form
Chile
Chile has been struggling with inconsistency, highlighted by their recent 3-2 defeat to France despite an early lead from Marcelino Nunez.
The side has not registered back-to-back victories since June of last year, with a record of two wins, three draws, and four losses in their last nine games.
A significant issue for Chile has been scoring, as they failed to find the net in five of these matches, including their last game against Paraguay.
Paraguay
Paraguay, under the guidance of Daniel Garnero, is also facing a tough period.
They have secured only one win in their last six matches, a narrow 1-0 victory over Bolivia with Antonio Sanabria scoring the lone goal.
Their attacking woes were evident in their recent goalless draw against Peru.
Team News
Chile
Alexis Sanchez, who became Chile's record cap holder in their match against France, is expected to start.
He will likely be supported by Eduardo Vargas in attack and Claudio Bravo in goal.
The potential starting lineup for Chile includes Bravo, Isla, Diaz, Lichnovsky, Suazo, Echeverria, Nunez, Osorio, Sanchez, Davila, and Vargas.
Paraguay
Paraguay will rely on Miguel Almiron for width, with Ramon Sosa on the opposite flank. Alex Arce, who made his international debut recently, may start upfront.
The probable lineup for Paraguay consists of Coronel, Ramirez, Gomez, Balbuena, Espinoza, Cubas, Villasanti, Rojas, Sanchez, Almiron, and Arce.
Prediction
Given the proximity of the Copa America, both teams are likely to approach this friendly with caution to avoid injuries.
Combined with their recent struggles in front of goal, a goalless draw seems a probable outcome.
Our prediction for the match is a 0-0 draw.