Peru plays Denmark in their Group C encounter, as both aim to get out with three points. We look at three players who could impact this game.
Peru and Denmark may have been absent from the World Cup in the last few editions, but they have shown grit and commitment in making a comeback into the Tournament. Their Group C fixture will sure have a decisive effect on how they progress, but it will be the players who will make the real impact on the pitch.
Peru might be coming back after 36-long-years to the World Cup, but they have a few players who can make the difference for their team. Having qualified in tough circumstances, they are in for a treat when they begin their games in Russia. Denmark, on the other hand, have a few more star names than Peru, but there are a few who are earmarked to lead their team to success in Russia.
Who are the three players in this Peru-Denmark encounter who are likely to make the difference in this game?
Paulo Guerrero – Peru
All Peruvian hopes are on their veteran striker’s shoulders. Circumstances were such that the veteran striker was on course to miss the World Cup due to an extended drugs ban. The football world collectively appealed in its way as well as Guerrero, who was cleared very late before the World Cup to take part.
For his part, Guerrero, who had been leading his nation from the front, deserved to be part of this tournament, considering Peru had last participated some 36 years ago. While Peru might not have many recognisable star names on their roster, Guerrero is undoubtedly one in their country.
The veteran striker is expected to lead the nation from the front, and it is likely that any fruitful attack will be centrally designed towards the striker. It is supposed to be his final chance to make his nation proud in front of the world, with a stellar performance in Russian soil, starting with Denmark.
Andreas Christensen – Denmark
The Chelsea centre-back is thought to be a future leader for his country, but in the present, he is a talent revered by many and is one player who has the perfect opportunity to shine. Having had two good seasons in Germany, the Danish defender was brought back to Chelsea and in time disrupted the established order that put David Luiz out of the team.
Christensen for Denmark could be the start of a beautiful story. While he has seemingly established himself at club level, it is now time to do so for his country. He has the talent and the necessary leadership skill required for a top class central defender, as well as an experienced partner in Simon Kjaer, to keep things tight against Denmark’s opponents.
His excellent form and a new age Danish team have coincided with the nation entering the World Cup after missing the last two editions. Christensen might not have control over Denmark’s attacking display, but it is considered to be his responsibility to marshal the defence to optimum success and lead his nation by example, and against Peru, it would be an excellent opportunity to start this trend.
Christian Eriksen – Denmark
Denmark’s star player and by far the most recognisable one. While he has already made his mark with Tottenham in the Premier League, it will be time he does the same with Denmark. It was his hattrick that helped Denmark into this World Cup, and he has to show that performance was no fluke.
Peru could be a tricky opponent, to begin with, but Eriksen is believed to be ready to become his team’s creative hub and run things in attack for Denmark. He is earmarked to become their leader as well as nurture even younger players who will be flanking him at the World Cup.
Eriksen’s winning mentality, as well as a potent threat in attack, makes him a dangerous player to deal with. Peru will undoubtedly be putting in a ton of focus on Eriksen, as they know he would be the heart of any attack Denmark get themselves involved in. But of Eriksen is to be in his best form, then Peru have significant problems.
