Overview
- Peru drew 1-1 with Russia in St. Petersburg, with Aleksandr Golovin punishing a Pedro Gallese error before Álex Valera equalized in the 81st minute from distance.
- Valera came on at 60 minutes and said it was a very hard match in which the team gave 100%, in comments shared on the national team’s channels.
- Russian media and figures, including Sport Express and ex-player Vladimir Ponomarev, criticized goalkeeper Matvey Safonov for the concession on Valera’s shot.
- Interim coach Manuel Barreto called the match difficult, highlighted an aggressive defensive plan, and pointed to limited preparation after a marathon trip.
- FPF director Jean Ferrari said Barreto’s stint is part of a planned process, as Peru shifts to Sochi to play Chile on Nov. 18 with reports suggesting possible starts for Fabio Gruber and Piero Quispe.