Spain Vs. Chile: Comparing the Two Countries By Teams, History, Culture, Celebrities, and More
Both Spain and Chile's passion for soccer runs deep and the World Cup is the best chance to showcase their talents. These two Hispanic nations have a long, storied soccer history and will be meeting in a Group B match-up Wednesday, so a lot bragging rights are on the line for these two countries.
Even though these two great countries are separated by nearly 7,000 miles, that doesn't mean we can't have some fun comparing the two nations:
World Cup History
Although soccer is the most popular sport in Chile's history, Spain has the edge here. Spain enters this World Cup as the defending champions after they defeated the Netherlands in the 2010 Finals. Chile and Spain have faced each other twice in the World Cup, in 1950 and 2010. In 1950 at Rio de Janeiro, Spain blanked the Chilean Team 2-0 and 60 years later, Spain would once again defeat Chile, 2-1 in group play.
Best Player Ever?
Spain has a lot of talent, as expected. Iker Casillas is one of the most popular players in Spain's history, especially because of his performance in 2010. Xavi Hernandez has also been a fan favorite playing the middle of the field at an elite level for years.
Both Spain and Chile flourish with seafood, as they are both oceanic bordering nations. Chile and Spain also take much pride in their wine, tortillas, and sauces. Spanish conquistadors settled in Chile in the 16th century, so it comes as no surprise that the two are so similar when it comes to food and beverages.
Size of Land and Population
Spain has by far the larger inhabitants of people with nearly 47 million people. This ranks as the 27th highest of any country in the world. Chile, on the other hand, is home to just over 17 million people, good enough for the 59th highest. But, as many have said, "it's not the manpower, it's the power of the man." Chile might have fewer people, but it's country is almost 100 square miles larger than Spain is.
Spain and Chile will play one another Wednesday afternoon at 3 p.m. on ESPN.
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