To the cry of ‘Peru, Peru’ and the traditional ‘Chi Chi Chi le le viva Chile’, AT&T Stadium was left with the desire to chant ‘Gol!’ in ‘El Clásico del Pacífico‘ (referring to the two countries’ regional rivalry) as Peru and Chile, drew 0-0 in the second Copa America match.
- READ MORE: Peru 0-0 Chile: Highlights, stats and result
- READ MORE: Copa America: From the ‘Ferxxocalipsis’ to Messi’s flash
- READ MORE: Argentina: Smooth win with two assists from Messi
After Argentina’s performance the night before beating Canada 2-0, this second tournament match in Arlington, Texas, left the crowd waiting for goals that never came and will have to wait for their next matchday.
However, despite the scoreboard did not moving, the match had its moments and at other times not so much to offer.
Bravo – Pillar and Veteran
Claudio Bravo’s leadership and confidence have been fundamental for Chile over the last decade, having led them to become two-time Copa America champions.
The goalkeeper became the oldest footballer in history to play a match in the continental competition, since at 41 years and 69 days, he surpassed Bolivian Carlos Trucco, who played in the 1977 final at 39 years and 322 days.
A distinction that will surely remain cherished in his country, as he is emblematic of the golden generation of his national team ‘La Roja’.
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From ‘Wonder Boy’ to ¿MVP of the match?
Although Alexis Sanchez is synonymous with goals for the Chilean team, the attacker ended up framing the clearest mistake of the match. A golden opportunity that fell at his feet in the 15th minute in front of the goalkeeper, but to his misfortune, the ball rose above goal.
A play that compares with Lionel Messi’s during Argentina’s victory against Canada (2-0), when he appeared to forgo scoring easy goals on two occasions. After all, Sanchez was named the MVP of the match.
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The frustration of Advincula and Valdes
There were unfortunate moments, with images that no one wanted to see. Peru’s Luis Advincula and Chile’s Diego Valdes were forced to leave the match sad and frustrated.
Advincula, the Peruvian defender was the first to come off the pitch in the 35th minute due to a muscle discomfort, evidencing his disappointment on the bench.
The Chilean Midfielder Diego Valdes, did the same just 10 minutes later, putting his hands to his face knowing that his participation at AT&T Stadium was ending less than 30 minutes in. His will was undeniable; however, he could not return in the second half.
An idolized Warrior
Gone were the nerves and reflexes of Paolo Guerrero since his first Copa America in Venezuela 2007. Now he relies on the experience of a 40-year-old, and as an idol ready to say goodbye on a high note with Peru.
Between applause and a thunderous venue that clamored to see his very best, the 70th minute became eternal for the attacker who is now playing his sixth Copa America with his national team jersey.
Guerrero is in fifth place among the top scorers in the history of the Copa America with 14, tied with Chilean Eduardo Vargas who also went blank in this Friday’s match.
Women also make history
For the first time in its history, the Copa America has included women among its referees, with some as center-backs and others as assistants.
Brazil’s Edina Alves Batista, the first woman to officiate a FIFA men’s tournament: the Club World Cup played in Qatar in 2020, broke barriers by being part of the referee staff for Peru vs Chile.
Next to her, was her compatriot Neuza Back, who served as the fifth official of the match.
