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Posted by Marcelo Angulo on 05/30/2010

Chile overcame Zambia in their last friendly encounter with a 3-0 score-line, the first two goals provided by Alexis Sanchez, the final goal coming from Jorge Valdivia.

In brief, Chile commenced and finished both halves of football in good form, though there were momentary periods in the middle of the first period without conviction. This made coach Bielsa bring on four changes at half time to alter the 0-0 score-line.

Beausejour, Isla, Estrada and Sanchez, all provided the collective play Chile needed to orchestrate attacking pressure, in turn providing the first goal at the 54' minute of the game. Again, the coach demonstrated his tactical ability and understanding of the artillery at his disposal within the squad.

"Exciting to see both Sanchez and Valdivia finding the back of the net, considering most of Chile anxiously await the return of Humberto Suazo..."

Nick-named "El Nino Maravilla" - "The Wonder Boy" - Alexis Sanchez will add to the attacking flair needed for the Bielsa style of play. Sanchez is an exciting player and will be one of the many upcoming stars to watch in South Africa. Starting his career with Cobreloa in Chile, Sanchez was purchased by Italian side Udinese, before returning to Chile for a brief period with Colo-Colo who paid for his services during the 2006 season. Sanchez then made 30 appearances on loan with giants River Plate who went on to win the 2008 Clausura in Argentina.

Jorge Valdivia as an attacking midfielder also adds to Bielsa's offensive plan and the aspirations of Chile. Rising from the Colo-Colo youth academy, Valdivia was eventually transferred to Palmeiras in Brasil, enduring a successful period and considered one of the best players for 2007 in the Brazilian Serie A. His next transfer move was to Al-Ain in the UAE League where he is contracted until 2012.


On the news front, Humberto Suazo recently released an announcement via the ANFP (National Association of Football Professionals) in Chile, stating that "The shoulder now barely hurts" and "Feels comfortable with his recovery", in time for the World Cup.

Bielsa and Chile now have two friendly matches on Sunday May 30 at 15:15 and 22:00 local time in Chile, playing against Northern Ireland and Israel.


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