The debut of the Peruvian team against Paraguay gave Juan Reynoso’s side their first point in World Cup 2026 qualifiers, albeit at a cost that could be higher than expected. Besides Luis Advíncula’s dismissal for the next game against Brazil, the Bicolor will be missing another important element: Christofer Gonzales. Through a statement, the Inca team confirmed the withdrawal of “Canchita”, which will be replaced by Nilson Loyola.
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“The Peruvian Football Federation announces the call of footballer Nilson Loyola (Sporting Cristal) and at the same time informs that player Christofer Gonzales is unhappy for the game against Brazil due to injury,” read the FPF statement.
Gonzales drafts Loyola. Photo: FPF
With the appointment of the Rimese footballer, the Inca team would have more alternatives on the left wing. Miguel Trauco and Marcos López are the first options for Cabezón, but the Light Blues will be watching for any eventuality from the substitutes’ bench.
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Loyola already has experience with the Peruvian team. In 2022, he played friendlies against El Salvador, Panama and Jamaica and was even called up for the qualifier against Colombia in Barranquilla that year.
When does the Peruvian team play?
Peru’s next game in this qualification process will be their home clash against Brazil. La Blanquirroja hosts Scratch next Tuesday, September 12, from 9:00 p.m. at the National Stadium in Lima.
How did Peru’s last game end?
The Peruvian team’s last game was the goalless draw against Paraguay in Ciudad del Este. Reynoso’s team managed to hold on to the result despite playing the entire second half with ten men.
How is Peru doing in the table for the 2026 qualification?
Check out what the rankings looked like after the first date of the 2026 South America Qualifiers.