Australia will face off against Peru for the first time ever in their final Group C match at the Fisht Olympic Stadium on Tuesday.
The Socceroos can get to the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time if they can beat Peru and France beat Denmark. They will no doubt have one eye on France’s match hoping that Les Bleus can do them a big favour.
FIFA World Cup
Australia vs Peru
Group C
Tuesday 26 June
Fisht Olympic Stadium
16:00
To Win
Australia 2/1
Draw 9/4
Peru 13/10
Australia
After excellent performances against both France and Denmark, the Socceroos will feel confident of getting a result against Peru, who have nothing to play for but pride after their defeat to France ensured an early exit.
Bert van Marwijk’s side are still in with a chance of qualifying for the Last 16 after they salvaged a 1-1 draw against the Danes, but they will have to beat Peru and hope that France can do them a favour by beating Denmark and reducing their goal difference in the process.
The Australians scored both goals thus far on penalty kicks, so while they’re known for their stingy defence, they’ll need to find ways to produce offence since a draw does them no good in this scenario.
Australia will be without their striker Andrew Nabbout after he suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder against the Danes. With this in mind, there could be a start in line for youngster Daniel Arzani.
Peru
Peru’s form coming into the World Cup was very impressive. They were unbeaten in four matches but they have not been able to carry this form into the tournament where they have been defeated twice. The South Americans haven’t quite lived up to expectations so far and they will be doing everything they can to salvage some pride from their final match.
Captain Mile Jedinak, who has scored both of Australia’s goals in Russia from the penalty spot, insists their campaign is not over.
“The belief is still there. And we will keep holding on to that until it’s taken away from us,” said Jedinak, the midfielder who plays for Aston Villa in the English Championship.
Peru might be eliminated but that doesn’t make Ricardo Gareca’s side any less dangerous. In fact, it’s probably the opposite. With no pressure and nothing but themselves – and their dedicated fans watching from the seats – to play for, Peru can play free and confident.
Jefferson Farfan has all but been ruled out after the winger suffered a blow to the head in training. Farfan clashed with the goalkeeper and was rushed to hospital with a head injury, but is reportedly out of danger.
Probable line-ups:
Australia: 4-2-3-1
Ryan, Risdon, Sainsbury, Milligan, Behich, Jedinak, Mooy, Leckie, Arzani, Rogic, Juric
Peru: 4-2-3-1
Gallese, Trauco, Rodriguez, Ramos, Advincula, Carrillo, Yotun, Tapia, Flores, Cueva, Farfan
Prediction: Australia + Draw – Double Chance (11/20)
Whether or not Les Bleus can do Australia a favour and beat Denmark, the Socceroos must do their part and beat Peru which won’t be easy, let alone better the Danes’ goal difference. Australia might not end up getting what they need, but I can’t see them losing this game. Back Van Marwijk’s side on the Win/Draw Double Chance at 11/20.
Written by Chadley Nagel