Voted as Arsenal's player of the season, the Chilean took Premier League by storm by producing awe striking performances in only his first season in England. Even world class players at times take their time to settle in, especially when coming into the Premier League.
This however was not true in the case of Alexis, who seemingly settled in his new side and was able to adjust to the physicality of the Premier League without much hassle. He ended a terrific campaign with 25 goals including a thunderbolt of a strike in the FA Cup final against Aston Villa, supplementing his goals with 12 assists to his name..png?q=75&w=634)
As of 22nd June, 2015 (source: starsports)
He started the Copa America brightly picking an assist in the opening match against Ecuador, was sharp in the match against Mexico and scored a beautiful headed goal against Bolivia. The former Barcelona man however has not been at his supreme best in his last two outings and Chile will want him to pull his socks up as they prepare for a big match against Argentina.
Argentina however will be like no side Chile have played so far in the tournament. La Albiceleste have now made it to the final of two major tournaments in two years and apart from having a very potent attack they also have a resilient defence which Alexis will try to get the better off.
It is however possible that in the case of Alexis Sanchez, fatigue is taking its toll for the 26 year old who made more than 50 appearances for Arsenal last season. Following which, the Chilean had no time to rest and headed straight for the Copa America. It is also important to realize that Alexis in the past had been used to getting breaks in the winter, having played his trade in Spanish and Italian clubs in the past.
Sanchez however is a fighter and he certainly will not let something like fatigue come in his way and glory. On Saturday one can expect an energetic display from the Arsenal man, closing down defenders giving them less time on the ball and tracking back whenever necessary.
However it is important that Jorge Sampaoli and his staff turn Sanchez's focus on his prime duty on Saturday which is to create difference in the final third. Whereas his off the ball antics are commendable and do earn his team an added advantage, he is quite a menace with the ball at his feet.
Not only is he capable of skipping past a host of defenders without effort, but is capable of unleashing a strike from a distance. He possesses quite an understanding of the players around him and his link up play is excellent. What bodes even better for him is the fact that Alexis is currently being played in his preferred position through the middle from where he can create quite a nuisance.
Argentina however possess one of the most impressive defensive set ups in the tournament right now and it will be impossible for Alexis to do it all in his own. It is important that his strike partner Eduardo Vargas supports him well as well as the midfielders behind him who will have to put forth an all-round display if Chile are to win the Copa American title.
Match details, result and original broadcast info
Chile P0 - 0 Argentina
July 4, 2015 4:00pmEstadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos (Santiago de Chile)This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
Live TV coverage and streaming in United States
Live TV coverage and streaming in United States
Follow the game on-the-go
Download our iOS and Android apps to follow soccer on-the-go. It comes packed with features - live scores, fixtures, results, tables, line-ups, stats, TV schedule and much more! Sorry, no live streaming within the app.
