Honduras 0-1 Chile – La Roja bright performance earns win

It was billed as the day that we were introduced to everyone’s favourites Spain, however Chile caused a stir of their own in Group H as an attacking display brought them a deserved victory. It was a memorable day for the Chileans as they recorded a first World Cup victory for 48 years, infront of the red invasion that flooded the Mbombela Stadium. Chile’s ambitious and imaginative football was certainly one of the more eye-catching displays to grace South Africa and the 1-0 victory was the least they deserved as Honduras failed to match them.

Alexis Sanchez was at the heart of much of Chile’s good, as a bundle of tricks teased Wigan’s Maynor Figueroa. The first glimpse of Sanchez gave Chile’s first chance to threaten goal as his run won an early set piece. Chile’s ambition and confidence in their ability was typified by the resulting free kick that Matias Fernandez’ sent swerving onto the roof of the net. The Chileans came full of self confidence gained in the impressive qualifying campaign that earned them a place in South Africa. The Chile attacks continued with numerous efforts threatening, including a long range effort from Arturo Vidal but a number of last ditch tackles prevented further breakthroughs.

Honduras seemed incapable to cope with the Chile pressure for much longer however, but may still be cursing their luck for Chile’s elusive opener. The build up was exceptional as an Alexis Sanchez pass dissected the Honduran defence, allowing Mauricio Isla to square to Jean Beausejour. The ball was bundled in fortuitously as the Honduran defender inadvertently sliced the ball against Beausejour and saw the ball ricochet into the net but it was no more than Chile deserved for an engaging and enterprising open.

Bielsa’s attacking philosophy meant Chile did not sit back as they continued to barrage the Honduras defence and would have felt hard done by that they were not awarded a penalty on the stroke of half time when an appeal for handball was dismissed- which contributed to a poor performance from the officials.

The second half brought a new wave of La Roja dominance, but Sanchez failing to capitalise as he could not convert a good chance after more inventive football from the South Americans. Chile’s display lacked ruthlessness if anything, as Waldo Ponce wasted a golden opportunity soon after. A swinging free-kick left Ponce 6 yards out with the goal gaping but his stooping header was wonderfully saved by a diving Valladares. Ponce may have chose to swipe his foot through the ball on hindsight but it proved not to matter as Chile defended their goal lead with minimal worry.

Chile now know a win against Switzerland on 21 June will see them through to the 2nd round, and they may be bolstered by the possible inclusion of Humberto Suazo, who will add a ruthless edge lacking today.

Chile, Group H, Honduras, World Cup 2010