After a strong start to the championship, Peru aims to consolidate its lead in Group B of the South American Olympic qualifiers and awaits Argentina, who did not progress beyond a draw in their first appearance.

Peru beat Chile 1-0 to lead their series, so victory against the Albiceleste will leave José del Solar’s side sole leaders and close to qualifying for the final stage that will secure two places for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Although the victory was by a minimal margin, Albirroja showed offensive flashes, interesting alternatives in the attack that make this team one of the winning opponents in their series, even though a good part of the team is under 18 years old.

“We are aware of the difficulties we have, that there are stars in the opponent, there are even world champions and players who play in the first league, if you start going name by name. But, matches must be played, and on the field things that are identified with a lot of will, with a lot of order, with a lot of courage,” del Solar said.

Despite a “star-studded” team, Argentina is coming off a 1-1 draw with Paraguay, which would force manager Javier Mascherano to make some changes to his formation.

The match starts at 18:00 in Ecuador at the Misael Delgado pre-Olympic stadium. (D)