WORLD CUP 2014: MEDEL AND CHILE FACE BRAZIL

Cardiff City’s Gary Medel and Chile will face host nation Brazil as the knockout phase of the 2014 FIFA World Cup starts on Saturday in Belo Horizonte.

Despite losing their final Group B match with the Netherlands in their last outing, excellent opening victories over Australia and Spain saw Jorge Sampaoli's side into the knockout rounds and a mouth watering tie against World Cup hosts Brazil.

City's Medel is a doubt for the fixture having picked up a thigh strain that saw him miss training in the week, but if passed fit to play will undoubtedly take his place in the Chilean defence once again.

Brazil are yet to lose to Chile on home soil in 26 meetings spanning 95 years, but Coach Felipe Scolari will be all to aware of how difficult it will be to extend that record against a Chile side that have impressed at this summer's World Cup so far.

Speaking on the tie coach Jorge Sampaoli told reporters: "We have the opportunity to change history which has been very tough for Chile. It will be the most important game that I have lived. It's a game where we want to leave behind negative results.

"I would like, beyond the result, to live the feeling that I loved in Germany, a stadium where people applauded Chile. We are playing each game with great intensity, different to others."

City’s Medel has played the full 90 minutes of all Chile’s matches so far, claiming much praise for his role in defence for La Roja. All eyes will be on Belo Horizonte on Saturday 28th June, kick-off 5pm for their clash with Brazil.