Two-time Copa America champions Chile commenced their campaign for a third title with a goalless draw against Peru on Friday at the Texas stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys NFL team.
The match between Chile and Peru was characterized by scrappy play, with neither side establishing dominance. The result plays into Argentina’s hands, giving them an advantage in their bid to secure the top position in Group A.
Chile’s standout moment came in the 16th minute when Alexis Sanchez missed a crucial opportunity. The veteran forward, instrumental in Chile’s 2015 and 2016 titles, failed to convert a close-range shot, sending it over the bar. Despite this, Sanchez remained positive about Chile’s performance.
“We had good moments. I’m happy and optimistic about how we played,” the former Barcelona and Arsenal player commented. Despite controlling 65% of the possession, Chile managed just one shot on target.
37 fouls disrupted the match, leading to a disjointed and uneventful game. Peru’s prime opportunity came from Gianluca Lapadula, who volleyed over the bar for around 60 minutes.
Peru’s coach, Jorge Fossati, despite the nervous play, found positives in his team’s performance. “We showed a great attitude and significantly improved in the second half. There’s nothing we can’t fix,” he remarked.
This result places Argentina, who beat Canada 2-0, ahead in Group A by two points. Chile’s next game is against Argentina in New Jersey, a rematch of the 2016 Copa Centenario final held at the same venue.
