Chile coach Jorge Sampaoli has admitted that the Copa América hosts had some difficulties in their Group A opener against Ecuador , but feels they deserved their 2-0 win.
Second half goals from Arturo Vidal and Eduardo Vargas helped Chile to an important victory in their opening game, yet Sampaoli feels they must improve if they are to win the tournament.
“We had planned a match similar to the one against Brazil, with attacking players like Valdivia and Vidal. The plan worked well in the opening 45 minutes, but we struggled a bit after we failed to score,” Sampaoli said at the post-match press conference.
“Without doing much, Ecuador caused us some difficulties in the first half. They then hit the crossbar in the second half and got another good chance. Had Ecuador pushed forward more, they could have hurt us.
“The result is just, though. Chile made the difference and deserved to win.”
Sampaoli then went on to praise goalscorers Vidal and Vargas for their contribution to Chile’s win.
“Vidal endured a long and difficult journey. He felt his journey a bit, but was vital for us in the end.
“Vargas’ goal will boost his confidence and generate optimism that he was missing before.”
Chile meet Mexico on June 15 in their second game of the group stages.
Bron: ca2015.com
