The Round of 16 opener for today will be, yet again, with Brazil But now, the Selecao will be fighting against Chile for a win to wualify for the quarterfinals. Brazil has been undefeated by Chile for the past 14 years, but the Chilean team's performance begs to differ.
As the two battle on, more pressure is seen from the FIFA World Cup 2014 hosts. Their coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari, though equipped with much expertise and experience still says he is nervous about the match.
"It is understandable that one should feel uncomfortable and anxious, especially when you get to the knockout stage. We can't afford to make a mistake," he said.
"There is a bit more anxiety, more nerves. But that is normal in any competition, not just because we are in Brazil. When I am on my own and I start to think, I do get a bit nervous."
Also, the Brazilian team members feel the same. Captain Thiago Silva opens up that he feels pressured too, most expecially after winning 3-1 in their opener against Croatia.
"We have to control our anxiety as much as possible. In the first game, I wasn't myself. I wondered if I had forgotten how to play," said Silva.
On the other hand, Chile now rely on their improved team. This team is stronger than what the Brazilians won over 3-0 in the 2010 South Africa World Cup.
Even though the Chileans lost one game in their group matches against the Dutch, they still look fierce and deadly on the field. In fact, in one interview dated December 2013, Brazil coach Scolari said he wants to avoid this team as much as possible.
Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez of Chile were exceptional in their win against Spain in Group B. Coach Jorge Sampaoli is also relying on Juventus midefielder Vidal.
Sanchez said, "We came here to make history."
Prediction: Brazil may look tough, but in reality, their performance keeping up with the world's expectation. Nevertheless, they managed to get through their group first. Chile looks promising, on the other hand. They look like they can upset the hosts and steal a win from them, but I would not count on that. I am expecting a 1-1 draw between the two rivals.
