Real Football Man All of the Football, All of the time
The arduous qualifying campaign which is the COMNEBOL section finally came to an end in dramatic fashion last night as we now know which four nations will be advancing to Russia. Not only that but we also know who will have to make do with an intercontinental play-off.
Also while not forgetting the small matter of the UFWC title. Going into this fixture Peru were the holders and the small hours of the morning saw them have their third defence of the crown. They had to face Colombia not only trying to keep hold of the mantle of unofficial world champions but also trying to book their ticket to Russia.
It turned out to be a mixed night for the Peruvians. Firstly they still are UFWC holders but they will have to make do with a two legged play-off with New Zealand if they are to make it to Moscow as results went against them across the continent.
At one point it looked as if Peru may miss out when Colombia took the lead through James Rodriguez on 56 minutes, it was certainly a nervy evening for the home side but their relief was evident on 74 minutes when Paolo Guerrero equalised.
That was the goal that was enough to see them hold onto their UFWC crown but unfortunately it was not good enough for a top five finish. That is because a Lionel Messi hat-trick would see Argentina book their place in the finals.
The draw meant that Argentina eventually finished third, with Colombia bagging the last automatic qualification berth. With Peru just edging out Chile for the play-off spot, it is disaster for the Chileans as this will be their first Summer break since 2014.
But you can guarantee this is not the Summer holiday they were planning on for next year. Peru are now just two games away from qualification and will go head to head with New Zealand in November to see who takes one of the final two places on offer.
It should mean that the title makes it way to the World Cup. Unless there are two draws and Peru lose on away goals – that is the next nightmare scenario. Or say NZ win the first leg 2-0 and lose the second 1-0, that would see them though but Peru win their crown back. We will have to see how this one pans out.
Here is all the action from last night in Peru.
