Venezuela Faces Peru in Crucial World Cup Qualifying Match

Maturin, Venezuela — Venezuela’s national football team prepares for a pivotal World Cup qualifying match against Peru on March 26, 2025, at Estadio Monumental de Maturin. The match, set for midnight local time, is crucial for both teams’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Currently, Venezuela sits one point above Peru in the CONMEBOL standings after suffering a damaging 2-1 defeat to Ecuador last Thursday. With just three points from seven qualifying matches, the team is eager to improve its form after a successful Copa America campaign last summer. Venezuela has gone winless in its last eight matches across all competitions and needs a victory to maintain its slim hopes for a playoff spot.

Head coach Fernando Batista emphasized the importance of home-field advantage. “We have been strong at home, and we expect the same intensity against Peru,” he said. Historically, Venezuela has not beaten Peru at home since a narrow 3-2 victory in 2013.

Peru, on the other hand, arrives in Maturin with renewed confidence after securing its first win under manager Juan Reynoso, defeating Bolivia 3-1. The Peruvians now have 10 points in the qualifying campaign and are just three points behind Bolivia for a potential inter-confederation playoff spot.

“Winning was crucial for us, and we hope to carry that momentum into this match,” Reynoso stated. Peru has had a strong track record against Venezuela, remaining unbeaten in their last eight encounters, including a 2-1 win in Caracas in 2021.

Venezuela’s lineup will likely include goalkeeper Wuilker Farinez, who remains critical as they attempt to stabilize their defense, which has allowed seven goals in their last two matches. Despite their struggles, the team has been resilient, earning points from losing positions in the past.

On the other hand, Peru’s squad has seen key players return, including captain Paulo Guerrero, indicating a stronger offensive presence. The challenge for both teams will be to convert scoring opportunities, as they rank near the bottom in goals allowed in the qualifying series.

Kick-off is scheduled for midnight, and with both teams fighting for their World Cup dreams, fans can expect an intense showdown at Estadio Monumental de Maturin.