Chile's U21 field hockey national teams, the Diablos and Diablas Junior, begin the second week of the Santiago 2026 Junior Pan American Cup this Monday, with a clear objective: reaching the semifinals to secure one of the three available spots for the 2027 World Cup.
The men's side, Diablos Junior, faces a decisive clash against Venezuela this Monday. Following a 4-1 loss to Argentina last Sunday, the national squad needs a victory to guarantee their advancement to the next round.
A win would propel the Chilean side into the semifinals, where the tournament's top three finishers will earn their tickets to the World Cup. Currently, Chile sits fourth in the standings with 7 points, trailing powerhouses such as Argentina and Canada.
The Diablas' challenge against Mexico
Meanwhile, the Diablas Junior are looking to overcome their recent lack of clinical finishing after a scoreless draw against Canada last Saturday. Led by head coach Mariano Moras, the team faces Mexico today, facing the urgent need to pick up points and improve their goal difference.
To advance to the next stage, the Chilean women need both a victory over the North Americans and an unfavorable result for Canada. The standings currently place the Diablas in fourth place with 4 points, trailing Uruguay, the United States, and Argentina.
Following this match, the Diablas' schedule features a final showdown against Argentina's 'Leoncitas,' a game that will ultimately decide their path in the continental tournament.
