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Regular-article-logo Saturday, 04 April 2026

We've prepared really well this time: Antonio

The Chilean U-17 side are on a mission. And ever since they landed in India, it has become very clear that won't leave any stone unturned in their quest for the U-17 World Cup.

A Staff Reporter Published 04.10.17, 12:00 AM

Calcutta: The Chilean U-17 side are on a mission. And ever since they landed in India, it has become very clear that won't leave any stone unturned in their quest for the U-17 World Cup.

First, one learnt that they were practising yoga to deal with the Indian conditions.

Then they revealed how Chak De! India has inspired them to give their all in search of success. And on Tuesday, someone who has access to the Chile team disclosed that their players have limited access to social media so that they can concentrate solely on the game.

"Two hours every day is what the players get as far as social media is concerned. The coach is very particular about all these things...

"He wants the players to concentrate on the game when they go back to the hotel and that's the reason why such a decision has been taken," the person said.

Like on Monday, Chile once again practised at the CCFC on Tuesday evening. The South American team's practice was preceded by Iraq's training session at the same venue. Both Chile and Iraq are in Group F of the U-17 Cup along with England and Mexico.

Speaking about determination, Chile are trying to shake off their 0-5 thrashing at the hands of Brazil in the final of the South American U-17 Championship earlier this year.

Forward Antonio Diaz, during a media interaction before the practice session, was asked about that humiliation and its after effects. "Yes, it was a difficult game against Brazil... But we have prepared really well this time... And if we meet them again, we hope to put up a better show," the youngster said.

Brazil are in Group D, along with Spain, Niger and North Korea.

For the South American rivals to meet each other, they have to cross the group stage hurdle first. Diaz agreed that the group stage battle won't be easy. "It's a tough group... But we are prepared for the test."

While the U-17 boys are trying to make a mark, the senior Chile team, boasting of stars like Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez, are quite a force in world football and are the defending Copa America champions as well.

Diaz said that the seniors are their inspiration. "The senior team has been a big inspiration for us... And I am proud that we have reached the finals of the U-17 World Cup."

"Sanchez, in fact, has been role model not only for me, but the whole team. He inspires me a lot," Diaz added.

Diaz said that while the Indian weather is a crucial factor, they are working hard to adapt. "The climate here is different from what we have in Chile. But we are preparing for all types of conditions and hope to be ready for everything."

Diaz's teammate, Nicolas Aravena, considers England and Mexico as their toughest competitors in the group.

"England and Mexico are the toughest teams in our group," Aravena said.

On the personal front, he said: "I started playing football when I was 12 and am happy that I have reached this stage. I will try hard to give my best and keep my place in the team."

Earlier in the day, the Chilean contingent visited Mother House.

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