Coach Marcelo Bielsa says he is confident his Chile side can rewrite history when they meet Brazil (1/2 to beat Chile) in their last-16 match on Monday.
Chile have a dreadful record against their South American counterparts having beaten them once in a decade, that win coming in a World Cup qualifier in 2000.
Brazil have lost just seven of their previous 65 meetings, winning the last seven matches and scoring 26 goals in the process.
They beat Chile twice in qualifying for the tournament – 3-0 away while they recorded a 4-2 home victory over their neighbours.
Monday’s match promises goals again with Chile having surprised many with their attacking approach to the game, playing three upfront with a man in behind during the group stages.
Despite only scoring three goals in the group stages Bielsa’s side created a hatful of chances as they proved themselves to be real contenders.
However, their lack of discipline could cost them with three players suspended for the second round clash.
Midfielder Marco Estrada was sent off in the 2-1 defeat to Spain (4/1 World Cup winners) while Waldo Ponce and Gary Medel received their second yellow cards of the tournament.
Chile have been shown ten yellow cards thus far and Bielsa will be hoping they can keep their cool against a Brazil side likely to frustrate by monopolising possession.
The five-time winners navigated the ‘group of death’ without losing a game and while lacking some of the flair we have come to associate with the Samba Kings they still look a real force.
Coach Dunga has been criticised for his style of play back in Brazil, especially after Friday’s dreadful goalless draw against Portugal as they were frustrated by Cristiano Ronaldo and co.
However, they are unlikely to come up against a Chile side looking to defend and will find themselves with more room to play at Ellis Park.
While Chile will have to be careful not to get caught on the counter attack by Brazil coach Bielsa is confident his tactics will end their ten year wait for a win over Brazil.
“You always believe you can do it, and overturn an unfavourable trend,” said Bielsa.
“Every game affords you this opportunity and Monday is a very attractive opportunity for us.”
The winner of this all-South American clash will face either Holland or Slovakia in the quarter final stages of the World Cup.
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Former Liverpool winger Mark Gonzalez believes there is much more to come from his Chile (7/10 to qualify from Group H) outfit in the World Cup.