Andina

FIFA praises Peru's past World Cup participations

Photo: El Peruano

Photo: El Peruano

16:54 | Zurich (Switzerland), Apr. 25.

In less than two months —on 14 June, to be precise— the 2018 FIFA World Cup kicks off at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium, as the host Russia takes on Saudi Arabia.

Within this framework, the soccer governing body praised the Inca country's past World Cup participations.

"Peru caused a stir at their maiden appearance at Mexico 1970 thanks to their attractive playing style," FIFA expressed.

"But (they) had the misfortune of going up against a Brazilian side containing Pele, Rivelino, Jairzinho, and a number of other big stars in the quarter-finals," it added.

"Indeed, such was Peru's attacking prowess that they ended up with the third best goals-per-game average (2.25) at the finals," only behind champions Brazil and Germany FR.

Likewise, it recalled the South Americans had also joined the 1978 FIFA World Cup (Argentina), where they reached the second round ahead of Scotland. 

Their last participation took place in Spain (1982), where they were unable to move beyond the group stage.

On this occasion, FIFA also mentioned the names of the most illustrious players: Hector Chumpitaz, Cesar Cueto, Hugo Sotil, Julio Cesar Uribe, Juan Carlos Oblitas, and —of course— Teofilo Cubillas.

Once again, FIFA praised Cubillas adding he was a "legend of the game," who made more World Cup appearances (13 across Mexico 1970 and Argentina 1978), and scored more goals (10) than any other Peruvian at such events.

As is known, Peru —last November— managed to qualify for a World Cup tournament after 36 years.

It will thus face Denmark, France, and Australia in Group C this June.

(END) NDP/MVB

Publicado: 25/4/2018