The first semi-final match was between neighbors Argentina and Chile. Argentina took an early 1-0 lead off a field goal by Rosario LUCHETTI in the 4^th minute. Argentina continued to dominate possession and apply attacking pressure. Yet, Chile’s defense held strong and preventing Argentina from scoring on a number of penalty corners. Argentina took a two goal lead over Chile in the 22^nd minute off a Soledad GARCIA penalty corner goal. In the 27^th minute, Chile’s Carolina GARCIA received a yellow card. Chile’s defense continued to play well and prevented Argentina from getting another goal before the half. Thus, the halftime score remained Argentina 2, Chile nill.

In the second half, Argentina continued to dominate possession. Chile’s defense held off Argentina for the first part of the second half. Yet, Argentina increased their lead to three goals off a beautiful AYMAR field goal in the 47^th minute. And Argentina’s Delfina MERINO made it a 4-0 score in the 56^th minute. For the rest of the match, Chile’s defense was effective at holding off the Argentina attack. Chile also had few attacking opportunities in the second half, but received its first penalty corner in the second half, but could not manage to score. Thus, the final score remained Argentina 4, Chile nill. And Argentina earned a spot in the Final match. While Chile will play in the match for third place.

Match Quotes

Chile’s Coach Diego AMOROSO

On the match…

It was a very difficult match. We worked well on defense and marked well. I think we reduced their spacing and passing lanes and so I am satisfied with the work we did on defense. At the same time, if you play a lot of the match without the ball, it is difficult to generate scoring opportunities to win the match.

Argentina’s Soledad GARCIA

On the match and Argentina’s many offensive corners (but only scoring off one)…

The most important for this match was that we prepared well and we knew what to expect. And that we had lots of patience, especially when entering our attacking area. We only scored off one penalty corner. I believe their goalie did a good job. We were also rotating our plays and players and we always keep our confidence and patience and know that eventually the [penalty corner goals] will happen.