The Peruvian national team seeks to rise again against Colombia in a crucial World Cup qualifying match.

The Peruvian national team faces a complicated scenario on its path to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. With a squad that has suffered significant losses and an evident performance crisis, the new head coach, Jorge Fossati, is tasked with assembling a competitive lineup for the crucial match against Colombia, scheduled for September 6. With key figures like Paolo Guerrero, Christian Cueva, and André Carrillo absent, expectations are low, and many fans are questioning what Fossati can bring to his first major commitment at the helm of the Blanquirroja. Since the last double matchday of the qualifiers in November 2022, the team has had a rocky road. Losses to Argentina and Bolivia left an open wound that, despite Fossati's arrival, has not healed, especially following a disappointing Copa América where the team failed to score a single goal and finished last in its group. The style of play that Fossati aims to implement, with a 3-5-2 system, requires players at their best, something that has been elusive for the national team in recent months. The new scheme aims to bring intensity and depth to the game, but the players' performance has not met the demands. The lack of creativity in midfield and inefficiency in attack have been evident, leading Fossati to make changes to the lineup. Carlos Zambrano, despite his advanced age and doubts about his physical condition, has taken on a leadership role in defense, while Oliver Sonne has been called up for his versatility on the field. The selection of players to accompany Gianluca Lapadula in attack is another critical point. With Guerrero absent and Carrillo in questionable form, Fossati's options are limited. Bryan Reyna and Piero Quispe are emerging as potential partners in the forward line, but their lack of experience and consistency in high-pressure matches adds further uncertainty to the coach's strategy. The situation becomes even more complicated with the absence of Renato Tapia, who, although he has recently signed with Leganés, has not played an official match since June. His possible inclusion in the team will depend on his ability to quickly adapt to the competition and regain match rhythm. In his place, Wilder Cartagena has been chosen to handle the midfield containment, but his performance thus far has been insufficient for a team that urgently needs difference-making players. As the match against Colombia approaches, the pressure on Fossati increases. Criticism over defensive performance and lack of goals has begun to circulate, and many fans are wondering if the coach will be able to find the key to turn the situation around. The urgency to earn points in this round is palpable, and any result other than a victory could further jeopardize Peru's aspirations on the road to the next World Cup. In the current context, the national team needs not only to consolidate a lineup but also to establish a playing identity that allows players to feel comfortable and secure on the field. With an excessive reliance on figures who are not in their best form, the team risks entering a negative spiral that could result in even greater pressure for future commitments. Fan expectations are uncertain. The hope of seeing a competitive Blanquirroja is mixed with concerns over the lack of goals and inconsistency in play. Fossati's task is to motivate a group that, while possessing potential, has proven to be fragile in crucial moments. The match against Colombia will be a litmus test for the new coach and his ability to adapt, as well as for the players, who must show they can overcome adversity. The history of the Peruvian national team is filled with ups and downs, and this moment could be a turning point. A good result against Colombia could revitalize the team's and fans' confidence, while a defeat could lead to a crisis of identity. Everything is at stake in this match, and the eyes of the nation will be on Fossati, who, despite the adversities, has the opportunity to write a new chapter in the recent history of Peruvian football.