World Cup 2014 Preview – Chile

This recent cold weather may have you in the mood for some chile, but the Chilean soccer squad is the real hot commodity. Don't sleep on this team, even though they may be in a difficult group.

When you are placed in a group with world powers Spain and the Netherlands, chances are you won't advance to the next stage, as only the top two from each group advance. However, Chile have the pieces to take down one of the superpowers and advance to their first knockout round match since they hosted the World Cup in 1962.

There is a plethora of talent on the field for Chile, led by none other than Barcelona striker/winger Alexis Sanchez. Sanchez has scored 18 total goals during this season for his club, placing second on his squad only behind Lionel Messi. Sanchez always finds shots, even in the tightest of spaces, and is great at finding open teammates, as his 11 total assists proves.

Chile's forwards are uber talented, but their midfield is a force to be reckoned with. Matías Fernández plays a larger role as an attacking midfielder, but his presence in the middle of the pitch is integral to their success. Not only is he a skilled player with the ball on his feet, he is a free kick specialist that is a legitimate threat to put the ball in the old onion bag anywhere within 25 yards (so defenses, it would be a good idea not to foul in your defensive third of the field).

Arturo Vidal is also a big name in the Chilean midfield. His experience in the Italian Premier League, Serie A, with powerhouse Juventus only adds to the edge that this team could have in the midfield.

My prediction: Chile is a really good team, and in any other group, they would easily advance; however, competing with Spain and the Dutch, the two finalists of the last World Cup, is a daunting task. The Chileans finish 3rd in Group B, but don't be shocked if they shake up things a little bit.