Spain vs Chile: Arturo Vidal confident he will be fit for Spanish clash
Juventus midfielder vowed to play through the pain if necessary
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Arturo Vidal remains confident that he will be fit for Chile's crucial group stage clash with Spain.
The 27-year-old has vowed to play through the pain barrier if necessary as his side have the chance to knock the defending champions out of the tournament.
Vidal underwent minor knee surgery last month but was able to play in Chile's opening game against Australia, although he was substituted after an hour in a fairly underwhelming performance.
Should Chile win at the Maracana, they could seal their qualification into the last 16 of the tournament, something that Vidal is determined to help them with.
"I'll try to be 100 per cent," he said. "Physically I think I am fit. I feel good and I've tried very carefully in training.
"My knee has responded very well.
"Playing against Australia was my decision. As I said, I wanted to play at the World Cup even if it meant risking my knee."
However he was under no illusions that beating Spain would prove an easy task, despite their humiliation against the Dutch last week.
"We'll have to be very strong," the 27-year-old continued.
"Are they burnt out? I don't think so. Spain have increased in quality and have more technical players.
"If you stop to look at this Spain and the one in South Africa, I believe this is stronger. We'd take a draw, but we'll go out to win as always."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments