Peru vs Argentina predictions for Wednesday’s World Cup qualifying fixture. Argentina aim to secure their fourth consecutive win in the 2026 World Cup qualification stage as they head to Peru on Tuesday evening. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.
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Match Live Wednesday, 18th October at 3:00 am In:
Peru vs Argentina Predictions
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A Battle of Legacy and Redemption
Key Stats
– Peru have not defeated Argentina in any competition since June 1997.
– Lionel Messi, despite being used sparingly recently, remains a pivotal figure, expected to impact the upcoming clash.
This week, the football world will focus on South America, as Argentina and Peru lock horns in a crucial World Cup qualifying match. While the Argentine side, managed by Lionel Scaloni, lead the pack with nine points, Peru, under Juan Reynoso, have been struggling in the qualification section, accumulating only a solitary point from their first three games. The contrast in their recent forms is stark, with Argentina aiming for a fourth consecutive victory in the campaign.
Peru’s World Cup history is a mixed bag, showcasing moments of brilliance in 1970 and 1978, reaching the quarter-finals, and patches of disappointment, including failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. In contrast, Argentina, the reigning world champions, have maintained consistent World Cup participations, their last absence being in 1970. They have been in imperious form since their World Cup triumph against France, registering seven consecutive victories in 2023.
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Recent Form and Team News:
While Reynoso’s Peru have shown glimpses of resilience, drawing their opening match against Paraguay, they succumbed to defeats against football powerhouses Brazil and Chile. The team is now placed ninth in the qualification table. A daunting fact for them: they haven’t managed to defeat Argentina since June 1997. However, two of their last four encounters ended in draws, indicating their capability to hold the Argentine juggernauts.
Argentina’s path, meanwhile, has been smoother. After kickstarting their World Cup qualification with a narrow win against Ecuador, they went on to triumph over Bolivia and Paraguay. Nicolas Otamendi’s early goal proved decisive in their latest encounter against Paraguay.
Key Players to Watch:
Peru’s top goal scorer, Paolo Guerrero, will be the man to watch. With 39 goals under his belt, the 39-year-old will be pivotal upfront. Andy Polo, despite being substituted during their loss to Chile, is anticipated to play a crucial role in attack, with Christofer Gonzales potentially taking a bench spot. The question remains: can Guerrero break through Argentina’s solid defence led by Nicolas Otamendi and Cristian Romero?
On the other side, the spotlight will, as always, shine brightest on Lionel Messi. Scaloni had benched Messi due to concerns over his fitness in their last match. However, given his brief appearance in the second half against Paraguay, fans expect him to start against Peru. With Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez accompanying him, Argentina’s attacking trio will be a force to reckon with.
Analysis of Expected Goals Averages:
For Argentina, their high average BettingTips4you rating of 7.24 and stats showing them scoring 5 goals in 3 matches reveal their attacking dominance. With a 68.7% ball possession rate, they’ve also controlled games effectively.
On the other hand, Peru’s struggle is evident with an average rating of 6.67. They’ve failed to score in their qualifying matches, emphasising their need for better attacking prowess against a formidable opponent like Argentina.
Match Predictions:
1. Match Outcome: Given Argentina’s dominant form and Peru’s recent struggles, it’s challenging to see past an Argentine win. However, considering Peru’s resilience in recent encounters and Argentina’s potential fatigue from consecutive games, the visitors might find a consolatory goal. Prediction: Argentina Win.
2. Correct Score: Analysing the recent defensive records and offensive firepower of both teams, a tight encounter with few goals seems likely. Prediction: 2-1 in favour of Argentina.
3. Goal Scorer: Lionel Messi, even though not starting the last game, remains Argentina’s top threat. Given his record and Peru’s recent defensive lapses, he’s a prime candidate to score. Prediction: Messi to score anytime during the match.
4. First Half Result: Considering Argentina’s early goals in their recent matches and their aggressive start, they might have the upper hand in the first half. Prediction: Argentina to lead at halftime.
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