2010 FIFA World Cup: How Chile Will Advance Out of Group H

Going into this World Cup, Chile find themselves at world football's greatest tournament after a 12 year absence. All the same, la Roja will look to upset the world in this World Cup.

And why shouldn't they? After all, Chile were able to finish second overall in COMMEBOL qualifying, and many expect them to advance from Group H.

Now, with Chile's first World Cup match rapidly approaching, here are the strengths and weaknesses that will define how well they perform in South Africa.

Strengths

1. They had great success in qualifying: Chile were able to finish second overall in COMMEBOL qualifying thanks to their strong play.

If that play carries to South Africa, Chile will without question advance from Group F.

2. They will be able to score goals: In qualifying, Chile were able to score 32 goals, the second most goals in COMMEBOL qualifying, with only Brazil in front of them at 33 goals scored.

With their goalscoring ability, Chile can outscore nearly anyone on the planet.

3. They have looked great as of late in friendlies: After wins against Zambia, Israel, Northern Ireland and New Zealand, Chile have proven that they're in top form going into the World Cup.

Weaknesses

1. The Humberto Suarzo Crisis: The best player on Chile, Humberto Suarzo got injured in a friendly against Israel and was expected to miss the World Cup with a supposed torn hamstring.

However, Suarzo made the squad and after rumors of being suspended for taking an illegal substance were dispelled, he will be fighting his way back into the starting lineup against Honduras.

2. Their Defense: Chile conceded 22 goals in qualifying, the most in COMMEBOL for a qualifying side as Chile are an offensive oriented side.

In the end that could be the reason for which Chile get eliminated from the World Cup.

3. Bad World Cup History: Outside of the 1962 World Cup, Chile have been relatively unsuccessful in the World Cup and this will be their first appearance in 12 years.

Now, here is what Chile must do to advance from Group H

1. Beat Switzerland: Chile's June 21st match against Switzerland at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth could be the biggest match in all of Group H as it will most likely tell us who will advance alongside Spain.

Chile must win that match as they could find themselves eliminated after their final clash against Spain.

2. Try to get a result out of Spain: Chile's final match will be against Spain on June 25 at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.

With that in mind, Chile must get a point in order to secure advancement onto the round of 16.

3. Make sure you have a healthy Humberto Suarzo: For Chile, Humberto Suarzo is the key to advance out of the group stage and with his recent hamstring injury, he is battling to be fit against Honduras.

If Suarzo is healthy, Chile will have no problem advancing.

4. Alexis Sanchez has to be a superstar: Alongside Suarzo will be Udinese's own Alexis Sanchez, a player that has some incredible talent.

If Sanchez plays great in this World Cup, Chile should be able to advance.

5. Get some luck from Honduras: The minnow of the group, Honduras will be the spoiler as they have nowhere to go but up.

With that in mind, Honduras will most likely take points from someone, and Chile will need to hope that it will not be them.