Peruvian Football Federation general director of football Jean Ferrari confirmed the national team will register Cusco and Puno as high-altitude venues for 2030 World Cup qualifiers. The team, managed by Mano Menezes, aims to return to the tournament after 12 years.
Speaking on the RPP radio program Futbol como Cancha, Ferrari said the federation is evaluating high-altitude cities for upcoming qualifying matches. He did not rule out hosting Argentina in Puno, adding that he envisions Peru winning that match 3-0. He noted, however, that significant work remains before reaching that stage.
Ferrari defended the proposal by citing Peru's recent home record against Argentina at Estadio Nacional. He questioned how many victories the team had secured at the venue, stating that playing in Puno could at worst produce the same results as the past 30 years. He explained that the federation wants to explore new options to counteract the strongest teams in South America.
Upcoming international friendlies
Before beginning qualifier preparations, Peru announced four international friendlies in North America against nations that competed in the 2026 World Cup. The schedule opens in the United States, where Peru plays the United States in Orlando on Saturday, September 26, followed by Mexico in New Jersey on Tuesday, September 29.
The team then travels to Canada to face the host nation in Montreal on Saturday, October 3. Peru completes the fixture list against Colombia in Miami on Tuesday, October 6.
