Chile head coach Jorge Sampaoli has suggested that Arturo Vidal will be named in the team to meet Australia on Friday night.

The Juventus midfielder has played just 15 minutes in the build-up to the World Cup after being forced to undergo knee surgery, but it appears that he has won his battle to be fit for their opening Group B match.

"The decision will be taken in the next few hours," Sampaoli told reporters. "His injury was rather complicated. He did what he could to get better. His physio has done a marvellous job and there is a high possibility for him to be there.

"Of course, there is an athletic side to him. If he was not as strong, he would not be at this level. We hope he will be able to play."

Spain and the Netherlands will also meet in Group B on Friday.

Written by
Callum Mulvihill