Two late goals helped Chile warm up for the World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland in Valparaiso.

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Chile dominated for long periods of the first half, but struggled to break down a stubborn defence, with Esteban Paredes heading the best of the half-chances straight at Roy Carroll in the 21st minute.

Northern Ireland came agonisingly close to taking the lead against the run of play just moments later when Conor McLaughlin met Shane Ferguson's cross with a firm header to force Jhonny Herrera to tip the ball to safety.

Marcelo Diaz combined well with Fabian Orellana late in the first half to carve up an opening for the hosts, but the latter sent his drilled effort just wide of the post.

Chile continued to dominate possession after the break, but chances were still being missed as substitute Charles Aranguiz headed over the crossbar, before Carroll denied Diaz just minutes later.

Alexis Sanchez came off the bench to make a vital contribution as Chile's opening goal finally arrived when the Barcelona forward's cross was headed past a helpless Carroll by Vargas.

Chile made it 2-0 in the 82nd minute when Mauricio Pinilla collected a pass from Sanchez before sliding the ball past Carroll to confirm the victory.