Peru Make Key Lineup Changes Ahead of Must-Win Match Against Venezuela
Facundo Trotta Arrieta
Dailysports's expert
Peru will face Venezuela on Tuesday in Maturín in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier. After a much-needed 3-1 win over Bolivia, coach Óscar Ibáñez hopes to build momentum by securing another victory, which would lift Peru above Venezuela in the standings.
Ibáñez will bet on a starting eleven with some modifications, according to FutbolRed. Carlos Zambrano would return to the central defense after serving a one-match suspension, replacing Luis Abram. Marcos López will come in for Miguel Trauco at left-back, while Pedro Aquino will take Sergio Peña's place in midfield. Renato Tapia and André Carrillo will complete the midfield line. In attack, Paolo Guerrero will lead the charge, flanked by Andy Polo and Bryan Reyna on the wings.
Peru's starting lineup would be: Pedro Gallese; Luis Advíncula, Carlos Zambrano, Renzo Garcés, Marcos López; Pedro Aquino, Renato Tapia, André Carrillo; Andy Polo, Paolo Guerrero, and Bryan Reyna.
A win, coupled with a loss by Bolivia, could push Peru closer to the intercontinental playoff spot. Speaking to the media, Ibáñez emphasized the match’s importance: “It’s a key game for us, and we’re preparing for what Venezuela might throw at us.”
