The final FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoff leg between Peru and New Zealand has begun at Lima's National Stadium.
Squads face each other in pursuit of a victory to secure a place at the Russia World Cup.
Within this framework, the match comprises the
Incas' last opportunity to return to a mega tournament after 36 years.
As is known, Peru and New Zealand saw a
0-0 playoff draw in Wellington last Saturday.
Tonight, thousands of Peruvian fans watch this sports event hoping the red-white squad will give one of their best performances on the field.
It must be noted there are three possible scenarios for the coming playoff game.
First, if both teams fail to score by the end of 90 minutes, there will be extra time.
Second, if the score is still level (0-0) at the end of extra time, the match will go to penalties.
Last but not least, if the clash sees a goal draw, it will be beneficial to the All Whites and Peru will fail to qualify for the World Cup.
According to governing soccer body FIFA, the side with the most away goals wins, although this applies if the aggregate score of both games is equal.
The Inca squad's commitment on this occasion is to win, so their dream will finally become a reality.
As is known, Guerrero is not allowed to take part in tonight's game given the
30-day suspension imposed on him by governing body FIFA.
It is worth mentioning there is only one place left for the 2018 World Cup.
Countries already qualified for this tournament are: Russia, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Tunisia, Nigeria, Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Colombia, France, Portugal, Germany, Serbia, Poland, England, Spain, Belgium, Iceland, Switzerland, Croatia, Sweden and Denmark.
Line-up
Peru: Pedro Gallese, Luis Advincula, Alberto Rodríguez, Christian Ramos, Miguel Trauco, Renato Tapia, Edison Flores, Jefferson Farfan, Christian Cueva, Andy Polo and Raul Ruidiaz.
Coach: Ricardo Gareca.
New Zealand: Stefan Marinovic, Kip Colvey, Michael Boxall, Winston Reid, Bill Tuiloma, Deklan Wynne, Clayton Lewis, Michael McGlinchey, Ryan Thomas, Andrew Durante and Kosta Barbarouses.
Coach: Anthony Hudson.