Marcelo Díaz on Chile's World Cup absence: 'We didn't deserve to be there'

Marcelo Díaz, a key figure for Universidad de Chile and a two-time Copa América champion, has voiced his disappointment over the Chilean national team's third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup. The midfielder acknowledged that the team's performance was insufficient, stating, "We didn't do things very well and we didn't deserve to be there."

Díaz expressed hope for a significant change within the team, aiming for qualification in the next World Cup cycle. Reflecting on Chile's last World Cup participation in Brazil in 2014, where they were eliminated in the round of 16 by the host nation on penalties, Díaz recalled the experience with fondness. "The memories are wonderful," he said, emphasizing his pride in being part of that squad, which he considers the "best generation of Chilean football in history."

He attributed the success of the 2014 team to a confluence of factors, including many players competing abroad, a highly talented group of players, and an excellent coach in Jorge Sampaoli. "An entire generation came together, was put in the blender, and I think it turned out to be, for me, the best generation of Chilean football in history," Díaz remarked.

Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, Díaz offered his prediction for the tournament winner. He favors Argentina, the current champions, citing their strong squad and the presence of Lionel Messi. "I really like Argentina. They are the current world champions, they have the best player in the world in their ranks, and they have a great squad," he concluded.