Alexis Sánchez doubtful for Chile’s World Cup qualifier against Brazil

Chile’s trainer Jorge Sampaoli told local media that starting the South America Qualifiers with Brazil is “one of the worst possible situations because they are still a major power at world level even though they have gone through hard moments and various criticism”.

Chile had more energy and more chances in the match in Santiago.

Chile hit the woodwork again early in the second half through Mauricio Isla before the breakthrough came through Vargas.

Matias Fernandez’s set-piece from the right was met by Vargas, whose side-footed effort proved too powerful for Jefferson. However, Chile have recently won the Copa America on home soil and will be full of confidence going into the clash.

Arsenal star Sanchez then applied the coup de grace in the 90 minute, jabbing home from close range after a wonderful flowing move which ripped Brazil’s defence apart.

However, the 26-year-old has failed to take part in any training sessions so far this week as he struggles to shake off the groin problem in time to line-up against Brazil in Santiago on Friday night. “Starting against Brazil or Argentina is much riskier than playing other teams”.

Suarez is still suspended for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

“In ’94 we were champions and the Copa America was next”.

Colombia also got off to a winning start as they beat Peru 2-0 in Barranquilla.

The host had another big chance in the 68th minute, but Gonzalez dragged his shot across goal after being played in down the left by Vidal.

Dunga has won all his seven matches against Chile during his two spells in charge of Brazil by an aggregate score of 24-3, but is aware that the latest fixture will be a different proposition against the Copa America champions.