The last time Peru qualified for the World Cup was 36 years ago, but they’re currently knocking on the door of Russia 2018. A win against Colombia in Lima tonight will send Peru to Russia 2018, while a draw and some luck will likely net them a spot in a two-leg playoff against New Zealand for the final spot in the World Cup. A loss against the cafeteros, however, and Peru will watch the World Cup from home for the ninth straight time.
In anticipation for what is surely Peru’s biggest match in almost four decades, President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski is calling for a public sector holiday starting at 4PM on Tuesday, so that Peruvians can support their team.
Of course, Kuczynski’s decision hasn’t been with universal acceptance, as some believe that the President is more preoccupied with the match than with the “real” problems affecting Peru today:
Regardless, as La Blanquirroja gear up to play in front of what will surely be a raucuous crowd at the Estadio Nacional in Lima, Kuczynski just assured that everyone will be that much more hyped up for the match. If Peru manages to get the necessary points to clinch a spot in the World Cup, there might need to be another public holiday on Wednesday, as the nation celebrates an achievement 36 years in the making.