Venezuela vs Peru

Peru Aims to Overtake Venezuela in CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying

Peru has a chance to move past Venezuela in the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifying standings when they face off on Matchday 14 at Estadio Monumental de Maturín on Tuesday.

Venezuela suffered a 2-1 defeat to Ecuador on Thursday, leaving them just one point ahead of Peru, who secured a 3-1 victory over Bolivia.

Despite a strong Copa América run last summer—reaching the quarterfinals—Venezuela has struggled since, failing to win in their last eight matches across all competitions. Under Fernando Batista, they’ve managed only three points from their last seven qualifiers, including back-to-back losses by an aggregate score of 7-3.

However, Venezuela remains unbeaten at home in qualifying, earning 10 of their 12 points on home soil. Their last two home matches ended in 1-1 draws against heavyweights Argentina and Brazil.

Currently, Venezuela sits seven points behind Colombia for an automatic World Cup spot but is just one point behind Bolivia for the inter-confederation playoff place. Their inability to hold leads has cost them—they’ve dropped six points after scoring first, which could have put them much closer to direct qualification.

Their last home win against Peru came over a decade ago—a 3-2 victory in 2013 World Cup qualifying.

Meanwhile, Peru’s 3-1 win over Bolivia on Thursday marked their first victory in this qualifying cycle, reigniting their playoff hopes. With 10 points after 13 matches, they trail Bolivia by just three points for the inter-confederation spot, with five games remaining.

The win also gave Oscar Ibáñez his first victory as Peru’s new manager. Before this, Peru had gone three straight qualifiers without a win or a goal.

However, Peru has struggled away from home in this cycle, failing to score or win in any road qualifier so far.

Historically, Peru has dominated this matchup, going unbeaten in their last eight meetings with Venezuela—including a 2-1 win in Caracas in November 2021.

Tuesday’s clash could prove pivotal in the race for a 2026 World Cup berth. Will Peru leapfrog Venezuela, or can La Vinotinto finally break their slump?

This version keeps the key details while improving flow, clarity, and engagement. Let me know if you'd like any further refinements!