Chile v Switzerland

Group H, 14:00 GMT, June 21, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

After two impressive 1-0 wins in their first games, Switzerland and Chile find themselves in the odd position of fighting it out for a place in the second round already. A win will virtually guarantee progress and both teams will be keen to avoid leaving it up to Spain to decide who makes it through.


Two more contrasting styles could not be found, given their opening games. The Swiss, defensive to the last and with only two meaningful attacking moves to their name, against one of the most impressive attacking forces seen at this year's World Cup.

Their preparations, too, have contrasting fortunes as Swiss defender Philippe Senderos looks set to miss the rest of the tournament with an ankle injury, while Chile's leading striker Humberto Suazo will return after recovering from the hamstring strain that threatened his participation. Winner takes all.

Chile player to watch: Alexis Sanchez: The Wonder Boy showed his full repertoire of tricks and flicks in the win over Honduras. His work on the right wing impressed no end and he was the focal point of the Chilean attack. Once again, he will work his magic and try to make his mark in the final third. A very tough player to mark.

Switzerland player to watch: Gokhan Inler. After beating Spain with the famous 'anti-football' we've seen from sides in the past, Switzerland had midfielder enforcer Inler to thank for keeping a clean sheet. His tackling, strength and domination of the central areas will play a part in breaking up the Chile attacks.

Key Battle: Humberto Suazo v Stephane Grichting: The talisman for Chile, Suazo, should feature in their most important game of the group and will be raring to go after nearly missing the tournament due to injury. He was the highest scorer from any confederation in qualifying and boasts pace and a great eye for goal. With Senderos ruled out, the onus falls on tough Auxerre defender Grichting to stop him. Powerful and committed, Gritchting held off the likes of David Villa and Fernando Torres so Suazo should prove easy by comparison, as long as he doesn't get complacent.

Trivia: The Swiss only managed 132 touches in the opposition half in their victory over Spain, fewer than any other side in the first round.

Stats: Chile's opening 1-0 win over Honduras was their first victory at a World Cup outside of South America, while Switzerland have yet to record a victory against a South American side at a World Cup.

Odds: Chile (2.30), Switzerland (3.40), the draw (3.10) are all on offer at Bet365, but if you think it'll be 0-0 then you'll pick up 6.50.

Prediction: A draw would be a bad result for both sides, although possibly Switzerland would fancy it more with Honduras to come. One feels that the Swiss may attack more now that the Spain game is behind them, and that may open a few doors for Chile.