Overview
Uruguay are making a strong comeback under coach Marcelo Bielsa. They reached the semi-finals of the 2024 Copa America and are currently ranked 3rd in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America. They are holding a great opportunity to win a ticket to the world's biggest football festival 2 years later.
However, recent criticism of Bielsa by veteran striker Luis Suarez could have a significant impact on the team's morale. The former Barcelona star believes that Bielsa strictly prohibits team interactions with fans and always creates a toxic atmosphere. In fact, Uruguay's performance is showing signs of improvement in 2024.
Uruguay have just drawn against Paraguay and Venezuela in the context of missing many players suspended due to the scuffle after the Copa America 2024 semi-final against Colombia. However, even without full force, defeating Peru is still within Uruguay's reach.
The home team has yet to taste victory in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. They have only 3 points after 8 matches, scoring 2 goals and conceding 10.
Therefore, despite the internal conflicts that may arise after Suarez's statements, Uruguay is still rated much higher than the host Peru. They need a victory to secure a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
In terms of head-to-head record, Peru have failed to beat Uruguay in 9 of the last 11 meetings between the two teams. It is also worth noting that the home team have failed to win in their last 4 matches.
Human resources situation
Peru coach Fossati will likely have to field a makeshift squad as several key players are absent ahead of this match.
On the other side of the front line, Uruguay can no longer count on Suarez after he retired from international football last month. However, Darwin Nunez can return after being suspended for the 2024 Copa America.
Expected lineup:
Peru: Gallesse, M. Araujo, Zambrano, Callens, Advincula, Cartagena, Calcaterra, Pena, Lopez, Valera, Flores.
Uruguay: Rochet, Nandez, Varela, Bueno, Saracchi, Valverde, Ugarte, De Arrascaeta, Pellistri, Nunez, M. Araujo.
The match between Peru and Uruguay takes place at 8:30 a.m. on October 12 (Vietnam time).
