Argentina, Chile Clash in Decisive World Cup Qualifier in Santiago

The CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers are entering a critical phase with Argentina already qualified and leading the table convincingly. Argentina, coached by Lionel Scaloni, faces Chile on June 5 in a high-stakes match where Chile must win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Argentina will deal with several suspensions and injuries, prompting changes including Nicolás Balerdi stepping into defense and Lionel Messi returning to the lineup, while Lautaro Martínez's participation remains uncertain. Chile, under Ricardo Gareca, has named a lineup featuring Felipe Loyola as right-back, a tactical shift from his usual midfield role, and veteran attackers Alexis Sánchez and Arturo Vidal leading the offense. Despite Chile sitting at the bottom of the standings, the team shows determination to upset the reigning world champions on home soil. Both teams are preparing intensely, with Argentina aiming to maintain dominance and Chile fighting to revive their World Cup qualifying campaign.