Eduardo Vargas scored a first half double with Arsenal striker Alexis Sanchez scoring another similar in the second half as Chile beat Panama 4-2 to advance to the quarter final of the Copa America Centenario in Philadelphia.
Chile players celebrating after scoring in the match
The Copa America defending champions went behind to an early goal but roared back thanks to outstanding g performances from the leading global front pair who tore the Panamanian defense into pieces.
Chilean keeper gifted the Panamanian with a 4th minute lead after letting Miguel Camargo’s 30 yard shot squirm through his hands. Chile fought back and we’re 2-1 up at the breather. Second half saw Sanchez stretch the leading the 49th minute before Panama pulled one back in the 74th minute after keeper Bravo failed once again to stop Abdiel Arroyo’s header from going in at his near post.
Sanchez sealed the game beyond reach for the Panamaians when he rose unmarked to head home a cross with only two minutes left.
Chile finish second and now will meet Mexico on Saturday.
At the Century link field in Seattle, Argentina stormed to the quarter finals with a routine yet ruthless 3-0 win over Bolivia. All the goals were scored in the first half with Erik Lamela, Ezequeiel Lavezzi, and Victor Cuesta. Bolivia put up a spirited performance but Argentina were superior.
Argentina players celebrate after scoring against Bolivia
Perhaps the introduction of World soccer star Lionel Messi in the second half made Argentina look different with his influence on the pitch evident with his quick feet and dribbling setting a spotlight attraction from the crowd.
After the match Messi said it was time to think about Venezuela which they meet in quarter final.
