Universidad de Chile prepares for key clash with O'Higgins at Estadio Nacional

Coach Fernando Gago confirmed his squad for Thursday's league match against O'Higgins at Santiago's Estadio Nacional, keeping in the lineup the two players most criticised by fans, midfielder Javier Altamirano and striker Juan Martín Lucero. The roster also includes goalkeepers Gabriel Castellón and Cristopher Toselli, a full complement of defenders such as Diego Vargas and Nicolás Fernández, and attacking options like Eduardo Vargas and Maximiliano Guerrero.

Both clubs are seeking to improve their positions in the Chilean Primera División. Universidad de Chile sit ninth with 21 points and can rise to third place with a victory, closing the gap to leaders Universidad Católica to two points. O'Higgins sit tenth with 20 points, and a win could lift them to fifth. Betting analysts note a high likelihood of an attacking game, suggesting over 2.5 goals and an early goal before the 30‑minute mark, with odds offered by bet365.

The match is viewed as pivotal for the second half of the season, with both sides aiming to secure valuable league points and improve their standing ahead of the campaign's climax.