Vidal doubtful for Chile opener

Chile star Arturo Vidal remains a doubtful starter in their opening match against Australia in the 2014 World Cup here Friday.

But it was not clear Thursday whether Chile coach Jorge Sampaoli was spreading a smokescreen ahead of his side's crucial opening match, reports Xinhua.

"To know whether he will play, the decision will be taken in the next few hours, his injury is rather complex, our physician did an excellent job, we now have the athletic side of him, we hope tomorrow he will be able to play," said Sampaoli.

The 28-year-old Juventus player has been struggling with inflammation in his right knee following an operation on his meniscus last month.

Sampaoli was questioned several times about the fitness of Vidal, but he refused to divulge any information.

"I don't think there is any contradiction, doctor said the player should play only a few minutes, but the final decision is we take, he took three or four training units per day, the chapter is closed," he said.

The 54-year-old, however, cancelled the official training session which was supposed prior to the pre-match press conference.

There is no doubt that Sampaoli is not willing to reveal his lineup, especially the availability of Vidal.

"We trained this morning, so we take a rest in the afternoon, that's why we cancelled the training session," said Sampaoli.