Peru is facing a critical moment in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

The current situation of the Peruvian national team in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup is alarming. With only two points in six matches, the team coached by Jorge Fossati is at the bottom of the South American table. Their only point was salvaged from a draw against Paraguay in Asunción, while in Lima they settled for a draw against Venezuela. These performances make it clear that the path to qualification has become more complicated than ever. One of the most evident problems is the lack of key players in the team. The absence of figures like Yoshimar Yotún, Paolo Guerrero, Christian Cueva, and André Carrillo has severely impacted the team's performance. Yotún, a pillar during Gareca's era, is sidelined due to injury. Guerrero, at 40 years old, remains a reference, but his lack of competitive activity has left him out of the call-ups. Cueva’s situation is even more concerning, as he has been dealing with off-field issues that have affected his on-field performance. Carrillo, for his part, has seen his role in the team diminish, further limiting the coach's options. Fossati, who took over after Ricardo Gareca's departure, has had to navigate a complicated transition process. While his arrival generated expectations, the reality is that his tactical decisions have raised doubts. The implementation of the 3-5-2 system has not shown clear results, and the lack of a defined playing style makes the team look disjointed. The last Copa América, where players were called up under precarious conditions, highlights a lack of planning and adaptation to current circumstances. The upcoming match, where Peru will face Colombia in Lima, is crucial. The Colombian national team, finalists in the last Copa América and with a well-performing squad, promises to be a tough opponent. For Peru, a victory is almost a necessity, but even a draw could be seen as a relief, although the need to earn three points is undeniable. The pressure on the players and coaching staff is immense, and any negative result could have repercussions on the team’s morale. The path to the playoff is not easy. Currently, at least 15 points are needed to aim for that position, and with only two points on the board, the task becomes monumental. For Peru to reposition itself in the table, it not only needs to win against Colombia but also to hope for favorable results in the matches of its direct rivals. The situation of each team in this round is key. For example, a win for Bolivia against Venezuela already gives them six points, and any defeat for Paraguay could leave them in the same position as Peru. The next round of qualifiers also presents a monumental challenge, as Peru will have to visit Ecuador in Quito, where the chances of earning points are slim. Ecuador will come in needing a win after facing Brazil, a context that could become complicated. If the Peruvian national team fails to defeat Colombia and then loses in Quito, the future will look bleak. In October, more challenges loom, as Peru will host Uruguay and then visit Brazil. These matches are high-risk and not favorable for a team seeking to get back on track. The pressure is mounting, and the chances of earning points in those games are limited. Additionally, the final rounds of qualifiers in 2024 will bring matches against Chile and Argentina, two teams that have historically complicated Peru's efforts. Time is running out, and the need for results is urgent. The upcoming matches will determine whether Peru can keep its hopes of qualification alive or if, on the contrary, they will fade away due to a lack of results. The team's performance in these upcoming matches is crucial not only for the present but also for the future. The team's morale will be affected by any setbacks, and a good performance could be a catalyst for the team’s revival. The pressure is palpable, and the support of the fans is vital in these critical moments. Finally, the history of Peruvian football in past qualifiers reminds us that a comeback is possible, but it requires a collective effort, sound decisions, and, of course, a bit of luck. Fans hope that the national team can find that spark that allows them to dream again of a place in the World Cup. Everything is at stake this Friday against Colombia; the fate of the national team in the quest for the next World Cup depends on that crucial match.