Quote:
Originally Posted by Cactus Jack
No. I think Chile is going to open up a lot of eyes and gain a lot fans and fanfare in this tournament, they are young and play a pure attacking style. They don't have any stars, just a lot of solid pieces that work their bags off and get the job done. Bielsa is a fantastic coach and I think they will surprise. The second seed in Group H will come down to the game between Switzerland and Chile, and I think you'll see Chile take it and face Brazil in the first knockout match. At the very least they're not a boring team to watch.
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Very possible. I didn't say Switzerland was a lock for second, but I do believe they are more likely than Chile. Isla and Sanchez are exciting young players, having seen them in action for Udinese. However, I give the edge to the Swiss because of their combination of decent skill and experience. They have a solid keeper, decent defenders, and a decent midfield. As well, Hitzfeld is a bonafide world class coach, and has a very impressive resume. He's one of two coaches in the world (the other is Happel) to win both CL and UEFA with two different clubs. He knows what it takes to win, and when it comes to passion v. patience, it could go either way, and I wouldn't be shocked if Chile goes through, but right now I think the Swiss are a safer bet.