The selection of Uruguay, guided by Marcelo Bielsa, is set to host Peru at the iconic Centenario Stadium in Montevideo. This thrilling encounter unfolds on the penultimate date of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The match will be officiated by Argentine referee Facundo Tello and broadcast live on TyC Sports Play.
From the outset, the Uruguayan team showcased its intent. Giorgian de Arrascaeta, following an impressive initial pressure from Brian Rodríguez, seized the ball at the edge of the box. He launched a shot, but it was narrowly deflected, hinting at Uruguay’s aggressive approach.
Uruguay struck first before the 15-minute mark. Following a well-executed play, Guillermo Varela delivered a magnificent cross from the left wing. Rodrigo Aguirre capitalized on this opportunity with an impeccable header, putting Uruguay ahead 1-0 in the vibrant atmosphere of Montevideo.
After a brief surge from Peru, which could not thwart Uruguay’s rhythm, de Arrascaeta posed another threat ten minutes before the first half concluded. The number 10 carved his path from the left, launching a powerful shot that tested the Peruvian goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.
The equation for La Celeste as they eye the World Cup is straightforward: they must at least secure a tie against Peru. This ensures that they won’t have to rely on other teams to secure their spot. Interestingly, even a loss might not eliminate their chances if Venezuela fails to secure a victory against Argentina in Buenos Aires.
Bielsa’s squad finds themselves in a promising position, currently fourth in the standings with 24 points— comprised of 6 wins, 6 draws, and 4 losses. They will face a Peruvian side that desperately needs a miracle to even qualify for a potential playoff , currently held by the red wine team.
For Peru to keep their World Cup hopes alive, they need to secure victories in their next two matches. They must also rely on Venezuela not to gain points and hope that Bolivia only claims a single point in their matches to stay in contention for a potential playoff spot. The goal difference will likely play a crucial role in determining playoff positions, emphasizing that every match counts.
Uruguay’s recent victory over Venezuela, solidifying a 2-0 win at home, places them on the cusp of World Cup qualification. With high expectations ahead of them, the crowd in the Centenario is anticipated to be electric as Uruguay hopes to clinch their place at the tournament, joining Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador who have already secured their spots.
The final day of qualifiers will see Uruguay facing Chile away from home on Tuesday, September 9, while Peru bids farewell to their fans against Paraguay.
Formations:
Uruguay: Sergio Rochet; Guillermo Varela, Sebastián Cáceres, Mathías Olivera, Joaquín Piquerez; Federico Valverde, Rodrigo Bentancur, Giorgian de Arrascaeta; Facundo Pellistri, Rodrigo Aguirre, Brian Rodríguez. Coach: Marcelo Bielsa.
Peru: Pedro Gallese; Luis Advíncula, Carlos Zambrano, Renzo Garcés, Marcos López; Luis Abram, Yoshimar Yotún, Christofer Gonzales; Kevin Quevedo, Luis Ramos, Kenji Cabrera. Coach: Óscar Ibáñez.
Stadium: Centenario (Montevideo)
Referee: Facundo Tello (Argentina)
VAR: Silvio Trucco (Argentina)
Time: 20.30
Broadcasting: TyC Sports Play
Current Standings: