The Estadio Defensores del Chaco is the stage for this World Cup qualifier as Paraguay and Peru go head-to-head. After nearly a year away from international duty, both sets of players finally get the chance to represent their national teams. Which side records that all-important three points up for grabs?
In general, Paraguay has been the more dominant team with regards to their head-to-head record. They have recorded 23 wins compared to their opponents' 16, with 13 games ending in stalemates. However, in recent years, the Peruvians have won the last six meetings between these two sides. Will they manage to stretch this impressive run to seven games?
Closely contested encounter in Paraguay
Los GuaranĂes last played an international game last year in which they drew 0-0 with Saudi Arabia in a friendly. They, however, will be keen on giving their supporters reason to cheer following that performance in the 2019 Copa America. However, failing to qualify from a group consisting of both Argentina and Paraguay is one that can be excused.
Peru, on the other hand, were also poor in last year with only one win in the last five games. However, they will be confident they can nick a positive result taking into account their recent results against Paraguay. Ricardo Gareca and his troops commence this qualifier bidding to book a place in the world cup finals only for the third time in their history.
Paraguay vs Peru Team News
Paraguay possible starting XI:
Silva; Escobar, Balbuena, Gomez, Riveros; Cubas, Romero, Villasanti; Almiron, Romero, Leczano
Peru possible starting XI:
Gallese; Corzo, Santamaria, Abram, Trauco; Advincula, Tapia, Aquino; Yotun, Carrillo, Ruidiaz
Paraguay vs Peru Prediction: 1-0
Games between these two sides are usually low-scoring, and we don't expect this one to be any different. However, Peru is missing an integral part of their team in the person of Team captain Paolo Guerrero. As a result, we would tip the home team to narrowly nick this win to kick off this World Cup qualifying campaign.