Chile coach Jorge Sampaoli has played down his side's favourites' tag ahead of their eagerly anticipated Copa America semifinal clash with rivals Peru.
The tournament hosts remain on course for a first Copa America title after overcoming Uruguay in a controversial quarterfinal last Thursday.
Peru, who beat Bolivia in the last round, now stand in their way in Santiago as they eye a place in Sunday's final against Argentina or Paraguay.
Sampaoli told reporters: "It is a very important match for us as a team. The coaches and players are very excited to be in the semifinal in front of our own fans, our own people.
"There is a lot of excitement surrounding us but we know how difficult a match it will be against Peru. They are playing very well and have picked up some great results.
"I don't like the idea of being favourites. I think Chile have played great so far in the Copa America but we face a team that is improving in confidence. They are better going forward than Uruguay so, for sure, it is going to be very hard for us."
The build-up to the match has been dominated by the fall-out from Chile's stormy 1-0 win over nine-man Uruguay.
Chile defender Gonzalo Jara, formerly of West Brom and Nottingham Forest, has been banned for three matches -- therefore missing the rest of the tournament -- for his conduct the confrontation that led to Edinson Cavani being sent off.
Cavani was dismissed for raising his hands to Jara's face, but TV pictures later showed the Uruguay striker had been provoked by a poke in the backside by the Chilean. Jara then feigned injury.
Despite this controversy taking the gloss off Chile's impressive tournament, Peru will still need to overcome the odds against the well-backed home favourites.
But coach Ricardo Gareca told reporters: "I don't see it as difficult -- the game is going to be 11 players against 11, plus the others that participate. I think we are professional enough to face this game.
"Both teams, Chile and us, can create a good spectacle. I don't see it as a complex situation, just a football game that will be played seriously. Peru are a team with a great history and we have a chance to be part of something beautiful.
"Chile are a very strong team and have earned their place because of their achievements and playing against them means we must play well. We have always analysed our opponents well but we have to reinforce our ideas and try to put them to good effect on the pitch."