Paraguay vs Peru predictions ahead of this World Cup CONMEBOL qualifier affair on Thursday night. Both countries failed to secure a spot in the Qatar World Cup, even though they both featured in the finals in the 2010s. They will be keen to enhance their performance leading up to 2026. Read on for our match preview and free betting tips.
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Match Live Thursday, 7th September at 11:30 pm In:
Paraguay vs Peru Predictions
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A Quest for Redemption in CONMEBOL’s Crucial Clash
Key Stats
– Peru boast a dominant record against Paraguay, remaining unbeaten in their last 10 encounters.
– Paolo Guerrero, Peru’s captain, is gearing up for his potential 110th international appearance.
The stage is set at the Estadio Antonio Aranda for the opening round of CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, with both Paraguay and Peru vying for a brighter future in international football. Having missed out on the Qatar World Cup, these two nations, both of whom graced the finals in the 2010s, are determined to rebuild their reputation and secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Paraguay’s Puzzling Form
Paraguay’s journey since the 2010s hasn’t been smooth. Once a force to reckon with, achieving four consecutive World Cup qualifications between 1998 and 2010, Paraguay seems to have lost their touch. Memories of their quarter-final appearance in South Africa, boosted by the prowess of Oscar Cardozo, Lucas Barrios, and Roque Santa Cruz, now seem a distant mirage as the team frequently finds itself at the bottom of the qualifying sections.
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Under Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s management since October 2021, Paraguay’s performance has been inconsistent at best. A crushing 4-0 defeat in Bolivia marked the end of Eduardo Berizzo’s era and the dawn of Schelotto’s. However, Paraguay’s World Cup qualifiers under Schelotto witnessed them drawing blanks in five of their final six games, amassing a meagre four points.
Yet, the tide might be turning. Recent friendlies have seen the team clinch narrow victories against the United Arab Emirates and Mexico, though defeats against nations like Japan, Chile, and indeed, Peru, have kept their progress in check.
Peru’s Potential
On the other side of the pitch, Peru’s journey has been nothing short of dramatic. Missing out on World Cup finals for years, they tasted action in 2018. Their close call in the Qatar World Cup qualifiers, eventually losing out to Australia in penalties, has only fuelled their drive to succeed.
Peru’s consistency over the last decade, as evident from their Copa America performances – making the semi-finals in 2011 and 2015, finalists in 2019, and clinching bronze in 2021 – paints a picture of a team in form. But will this translate into success against Paraguay?
Key Players to Watch
The absence of Julio Enciso and Derlis Gonzalez due to injuries puts extra pressure on Miguel Almiron, Newcastle United’s regular, to step up for Paraguay. With veteran Antony Silva missing from the lineup, Schelotto is putting his faith in younger goalkeepers, a risky yet intriguing move.
Peru’s lineup looks more settled. The experienced Pedro Gallese is poised to make his 98th and 99th caps, and captain Paolo Guerrero, also at 39, is geared up for his 110th appearance. Gianluca Lapadula’s absence might elevate Guerrero’s role as the main striker.
Predictions
- Match Outcome Prediction: Given the historical data and the current form, Peru seems to hold an edge. They’ve remained undefeated against Paraguay in their last 10 matches, winning nine. While Paraguay’s form has been inconsistent, Peru’s track record in recent years speaks volumes. Hence, an away win for Peru seems the most justified prediction.
- Correct Score Prediction: Analysing the recent form and considering Paraguay’s struggle in front of the goal under Schelotto’s management, a 2-1 victory in favour of Peru appears a balanced forecast.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Paolo Guerrero, with his wealth of experience and given his primary role due to Lapadula’s injury, is poised to make an impact. Predicting Guerrero to score at least once during the match seems fitting.
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