Wed Nov 20 00:14:50 UTC 2024: ## World Cup Champions Argentina Aim for Rebound Against Peru

**Buenos Aires, Argentina** – World Cup champions Argentina will look to regain their footing when they face Peru in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. The match comes after Argentina suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat to Paraguay, their third loss in the qualifying campaign. Despite the setback, Argentina remains atop the standings with 22 points from 11 matches (7 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses).

Peru, currently ninth in the table with seven points (1 win, 4 draws, 6 losses), will be a challenging opponent. While they secured a 1-0 victory over Uruguay recently, they are struggling to score goals, having netted only three times in 11 matches. Their most recent match ended in a goalless draw against Chile.

Argentina will be without key defenders Cristian Romero (foot injury) and Lisandro Martínez (hip and back injury), forcing changes to their backline. However, Lionel Messi is expected to feature in his 191st appearance for Argentina. Peru, meanwhile, reports no new injuries from their last match, though the fitness of veteran Paolo Guerrero will be assessed.

The historical record heavily favors Argentina, with 37 wins and only seven losses against Peru in 58 previous encounters. Despite this, Peru possesses enough talent to potentially cause an upset. The match is expected to be a low-scoring affair, but Argentina, determined to bounce back from their recent loss, is predicted to secure a victory.

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