Daily Times

SOCHI: A stunning Andre Carrillo volley gave Peru their first World Cup goal in 36 years before captain Paolo Guerrero grabbed a second as the Andean nation condemned Australia to a 2-0 defeat in Sochi on Tuesday and an early exit from Russia. Guerrero set up Carrillo’s 18th-minute wonder goal from the edge of the box with a delightful cross, then scored from a deflection five minutes after the interval to send Peru’s red-and-white army of fans into ecstasy at the Fisht Stadium. Although already eliminated, the Peruvians head home on a high note, having grabbed their first World Cup win since their 4-1 defeat of Iran at the 1978 finals in Argentina. Denied a place at the global showpiece for 36 years, the result left Peru third in Group C with three points, while the Socceroos head home with just one, but more than a few regrets. France topped the group with seven points, with Denmark runners-up on five after the teams played out a 0-0 draw. Australia had needed to beat Peru and for France to defeat Denmark so the result was largely academic for the Socceroos.

Published in Daily Times, June 27^th 2018.