Arturo Vidal's provocation to Argentina that shakes up the south American qualifiers

Chile's journey towards the 2026 World Cup is far from ideal. With a disappointing performance in the South American qualifiers, La Roja finds itself at the bottom of the table, and criticism has not been scarce. Their recent defeat has further alarmed fans, as the team struggles to keep their hopes alive with every passing matchday.

Arturo Vidal remains confident: "Against Argentina, it will be easier"

Amid Chile’s bleak situation, Arturo Vidal, one of the team’s key figures, has made a bold statement that quickly sparked controversy.

"Clearly, the match against Ecuador is our last chance. If we win those three points, we will surely qualify for the World Cup, because against Argentina, I think it will be much easier than playing here against Paraguay," Vidal declared, showing his confidence in the squad’s ability to turn things around.

However, his words have not been well-received in all quarters. While fans criticise the team’s performance and the coaching staff’s decisions, Vidal’s comments were seen by some as an unnecessary provocation, especially when referring to Argentina – the reigning world champions and current leaders of the qualifiers.

A complicated future for Chile

With just a few points on the board, Chile faces a tough road ahead. Their next match is against Ecuador, a team that has shown strength in the qualifiers and is widely considered the favourite in this clash. According to Vidal, this game is crucial to keep their World Cup hopes alive, as another loss would virtually end Chile’s chances of qualification.

Adding to their woes, the schedule does not favour La Roja. After facing Ecuador, Chile will travel to Argentina for a fixture that, by all accounts, will be extremely challenging. With Lionel Messi leading an unstoppable Albiceleste side, Vidal’s claim that this game would be "easier" than others only serves to increase the pressure on Chile’s struggling squad.

Can Chile turn things around in time?

The numbers do not lie: Chile needs a string of victories to keep their World Cup dream alive. The problem is not just the results but also the team’s collective performance, which seems to lack the tools needed to compete at the highest level.

The spotlight is also on manager Eduardo Berizzo, who faces mounting criticism from both fans and the media. Many question his tactical choices and the lack of renewal in the squad – an issue that has plagued Chile since the decline of their golden generation.

Vidal: the voice of experience in a critical moment

Despite the criticism, Arturo Vidal remains one of Chile’s most influential figures. At 36 years old, the midfielder knows this may be his last chance to play in a World Cup, and his statements reflect both his confidence and the urgency of the current situation.

The real question is whether La Roja can respond to the mounting pressure on the pitch. The match against Ecuador will be decisive, and only a victory can keep their World Cup hopes alive. If they fail, not even Vidal’s optimism will be enough to save Chile from missing out on another tournament.