At Port Elizabeth Stadium on Monday, Chile defeated 10-man Switzerland 1-0 thanks to a goal from South African-born winger Mark Gonzalez, who entered the pitch in the second half. Despite collecting six points in just two games, Chile still needs at least a draw against Spain to secure a spot in the World Cup’s round of 16.
Gonzalez scored the game-winning goal with a well-placed header for Chile in the 75th minute after Esteban Paredes had maneuvered past the Swiss defense.
The team led by Marcelo Bielsa took control from the opening minute, applying pressure on the Swiss defense with a quick breakaway down the sides. However, just four of their nine efforts on goal in the opening period were successful. While Switzerland narrowly avoided Chile’s territory.
Tough challenges from both teams ruined the game, and in the 31st minute, referee Khalil Al Ghamdi was forced to dismiss Swiss midfielder Valon Behrami for aggressive behavior.
In the 49th minute, Udinese striker Alexis Sanchez scored, but the goal was ruled to be offside. Six minutes later, he had another clean shot at goal, but Diego Benaglio, the Swiss goalie, intercepted the ball.
Chile had many clear-cut chances to increase its lead against poor Switzerland, but it did not take advantage of them. The Chileans were a constant threat to the opposition’s defense, but they lacked the determination to put them down.
Eren Derdiyok, a substitute, nearly won the Swiss an unexpected tie during a rare attack, but he managed to miss the goal. The mistake encapsulated Switzerland’s performance for the full 90 minutes, as the Europeans failed to address a shot on goal.
With the victory, Chile ultimately eclipsed Switzerland’s World Cup record of 551 minutes without giving up a goal. With six points, La Roja leads Group H ahead of Switzerland’s three points. Both groups and Spain, which defeated Honduras 2-0 on Monday, have a chance to go to the round of 16.
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