Could this be the end of the rough patch? Thursday night fell over the Estadio Nacional like a chant of redemption. La Blanquirroja (the Red-White Squad), which had stumbled so many times in its own sorrow, rose with a 3-1 victory that tasted like hope.
Bolivia was the opponent, but the real enemy was at home: the uncertainty and distrust sown by bitter defeats.
And yet, under the leadership of new coach Oscar Ibañez —a familiar face from better times— the national team found its voice again.
This match would be either an abyss or a bridge, and the Peruvians chose to cross it.
Andy Polo ignited the spark with a goal that felt like a whisper of vindication.
Then, Paolo Guerrero, the eternal captain of unforgettable feats, reminded us that age is just a number when passion burns in one's chest.
Indeed, his turn and strike were a poem written with his boots, a memory of glorious nights that once seemed distant.
But history wouldn't be written without a scare: Bolivia pulled one back in the second half, and for a moment, doubt returned to the stands.
That was when Edison Flores with the magic of those who rise when most needed, sealed the victory with a precise shot across goal.
The VAR —that relentless judge that had denied Peru so many joys— this time surrendered to the evidence: the goal was legitimate, the victory well deserved.
A Boost for What's to Come
La Blanquirroja has gained three points and, with them, a spark of faith.
It leaves the bottom of the standings —now occupied by Chile— and clings to the World Cup dream, fully aware that there is no margin for error. There is no more room for regrets or excuses.
The next challenger is Venezuela, an opponent that also dreams of glory and will demand the best version of Peru's national team.
The recent victory is not a guarantee, but it is a statement of intent. The curse is not eternal. There is still fire in Peru's heart. There is still history left to write.
Editor's note: The story in Spanish was written by Marcelo Eslava. English version by Jhaen Miranda.
(END) MEG/JMP/MVB
Published: 3/21/2025