Chile
Chile vs Mexico was supposed to be the most even and exciting quarterfinal in the Copa America 2016. Mexico, along with Argentina had been the most impressive team in the group stages and many experts thought they could knock the Chileans out. The way Chile completely dismantled and destroyed them though was awe inspiring.
It was a stark reminder of the talent and cohesiveness they possess. Eduardo Vargas has a horrendous goal return at club level but continues to bang them in for his country. He bagged a stunning 4 goals against the Mexicans, taking his overall tally to 31 goals in 57 games in internationals. Alexis Sanchez and Arturo Vidal look sharp and at their best and Chile combine to form a truly frightening unit. Vidal is suspended for the semi-final though in what could be a crucial blow. They still carry the momentum of a 7-0 win and with confidence oozing in their veins, they should still start as favorites against Colombia.
Colombia
It took a penalty shootout win for the Colombians to knock out a plucky Peru side that threatened to send another giant tumbling out of the competition, after their controversial elimination of Brazil. Colombia will wipe that match from their memory, though, and look to take a major step to winning a trophy that would seal their status as being one of best Colombian teams of all time.
They have a tried and tested way of playing, with Carlos Bacca a predator in front of goal and James Rodriguez in the hole. Juan Cuadrado will look to get behind the Chile defense with his speed and skill, and Colombia’s midfield duo of Carlos Sanchez and Daniel Torres will look to make the most of Vidal’s absence and stamp their presence in the middle of the park. Murillo and Zapata form a solid presence in the center of defense, although both are prone to the odd lapses of concentration and will look to keep out Sanchez and Vargas.
