Peru’s 1–0 loss to Venezuela in Maturín dealt a significant blow to their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes. With just 10 points from 14 matches, the team currently sits second to last in the CONMEBOL standings, five points behind Venezuela, which holds the intercontinental playoff spot.
Although the path to the playoff is slim, it’s not entirely impossible. To have a realistic chance, Peru must win their two remaining home matches against Ecuador and Paraguay, and secure at least one point from their away games against Colombia or Uruguay. However, even that may not be enough without help from other teams.
Venezuela faces a challenging finish to the campaign, with away games against Uruguay and Argentina and a home clash against Colombia. Bolivia, just one point behind Venezuela, is still in contention but has a tough schedule ahead with matches against Chile, Brazil, and Colombia.
For Peru, an ideal scenario would see Venezuela and Bolivia draw when they face each other, followed by both teams dropping points in their remaining fixtures. Chile, also on 10 points, could further complicate matters depending on their performance.
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Peru’s fate is no longer in its own hands, but with 12 points still up for grabs and many twists left in the qualification race, the hope for a playoff spot remains mathematically alive.
Read more: Here’s how the battle for the playoff spot in the South American Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup stands.
