The Chilean national team defeated Russia 2-0 in a friendly match in Sochi, with goals from Gonzalo Tapia and Ben Brereton. Interim coach Nicolás Córdova hailed the efficient win despite not controlling possession, but lamented unfair criticism of his staff. The result comes after a tough 2025 for La Roja.
At Sochi's Fisht Olympic Stadium, Chile defeated Russia in a friendly on November 15, 2025, breaking the hosts' 23-match unbeaten streak against lesser teams due to sanctions from the Ukraine invasion. La Roja, led by interim coach Nicolás Córdova, used a defensive five-back line, focusing on rear solidity and lethal counters.
The first goal came in the 36th minute, as Vicente Pizarro recovered the ball, Javier Altamirano advanced it, and Gonzalo Tapia of Sao Paulo finished with a left-footed shot past Stanislav Agkatsev, marking his senior international debut goal. In the second half, Chile improved possession with substitutes Ben Brereton and Lucas Cepeda entering. At the 75th, Brereton of Derby County made it 2-0 after a Gabriel Suazo recovery and Cepeda assist, adding his second consecutive goal for Chile following his strike against Peru.
Chile's defense, anchored by Iván Román and Guillermo Maripán, was flawless, withstanding Russian attacks that hit the crossbar twice. Lawrence Vigouroux made key saves. Córdova praised the pressure play: “One of the items that worked best was the defensive part and we knew we could hurt them on recoveries”.
Post-match, the interim coach voiced frustration over smears: “Sometimes it's sad to read and hear what's come out. It hurts. Criticism on the football side is fine, but lying and slandering is very unfair”. He stressed his goal: preparing youth for the 2030 World Cup, providing continuity to emerging talents for the next coach. Russia, featuring players like Aleksandr Golovin, showed pace but lacked finishing. Chile will close the tour against Peru on Tuesday.