Hello, everyone, this is my first post in this community!
Chile came out determined not to be overrun by Argentina, and the first half was intense, with many players clashing against each other. During the first half, Chile achieved its objective, but in a declining manner: Argentina began to dominate possession, although they failed to create clear goal chances. Then, by pressing high and improving the midfielders' accuracy, Argentina managed to create scoring opportunities from the 35th minute onward, nullifying Chile's counterattacks, although they lacked effectiveness in their shots.
Despite Argentina's improvement, the players became increasingly exasperated with the referee, as he, despite not making serious mistakes, almost always favored Chile in physical clashes.
The second half was very similar to the first, but without Argentina's clear superiority. Chile managed to create two clear goal chances, one of which required a great save from Dibu Martínez. Eventually, from an Argentine corner near the end, after one or two rebounds, the ball fell to Lautaro Martínez, who shot on first touched, making it impossible for the Chilean goalkeeper to save, securing Argentina's victory. However, Lautaro would miss a goal in an easier scoring opportunity later on.
Argentina qualified, but now there is concern for Messi: I believe I had never seen a worst game by him with the Argentine national team, with him having very little impact in the game, likely due to a problem he had with his right adductor in the first half. It must have been one of those pains that are not disabling but worsen over time, causing the player to fear a tear if they exert themselves too much. I think Messi will likely not start in the third group match that will determine whether Argentina end first or second in the group.
