World Cup 2018
Peru vs Denmark Preview
Group C action continues with Peru vs Denmark in the brand new Mordovia Arena in Saransk. Both teams will be relying on their strong defenses to get a good result. This will be the first match in the World Cup Finals for the South Americans in 36 years. Considered to be the game that decides who finishes second behind France, it is arguably the most important in Group C.
Background
Both teams qualified for the finals via playoff matches with Denmark dispatching of the Republic of Ireland thanks to the good work of Christian Eriksen. Peru defeated New Zealand shutting them out over both legs and scoring two goals in the second leg. The result of France vs Australia will be well known by the time they take the field Saturday afternoon.
Most viewers will be expecting the Danes to come away with a win due to confidence in Eriksen’s ability to control the midfield. Peru’s coach Ricardo Gareca assured fans in the pre-match press conference that they are prepared to handle the Tottenham midfielder. The Europeans will also take note that, like them, Peru is currently undefeated since 2016.
Despite Peru’s impressive defensive record, it’s their attack led by Paulo Guerrero that will worry the Danish defense. Guerrero was recently cleared to play after the Court of Arbitration agreed to delay his suspension for doping. Denmark’s over-reliance on Eriksen is evident by their 0-0 draw with Sweden in his absence and ‘La Blanquirroja’ will aim to nullify their star player.
Predicted Lineups
Denmark: Schmeichel; Dalsgaard, Kjaer, Christensen, Stryger Larsen; Kvist, Delaney; Poulsen, Eriksen, Sisto; Jorgensen
Peru: Gallese; Advincula, Ramos, Rodriguez, Trauco; Tapia, Yotun; Flores, Cueva, Carrillo; Farfan/Guerrero.
Prediction
The popular choice here will be Denmark as they enter their fifth consecutive World Cup Finals appearance. Much of the talk will be about the Dane’s slightly higher quality within the squad. It has been a while since Peru has played on the world’s biggest stage and their fans have never been more inspired than at this moment. According to The Sun, 90% of the fans at the match on Saturday could be cheering for Peru. This sort of momentum has to play a positive factor for Gareca’s men who already need no motivation.
Peru 2 – 2 Denmark
