If the excitement of qualification wasn't enough, the news of the postponed suspension for Paolo Guerrero has added even more enthusiasm to the whole of Peru. His inclusion is the missing piece of a truly historic journey that has seen Peru after 36 years find itself back in the center of the international football universe. Guerrero is Peru's all-time leading goal scorer and captain. The ex-Bayern Munich hotshot embodies this team, he is a warrior who battles for every ball and will be a tough task for any opponent. Like-minded is Jefferson Farfán, the attacker who can be forgiven for thinking his World Cup dream would never come true, still somehow has outstanding dribbling ability and pace. The 33-year-old is very familiar with the Russian conditions after being named a Russian champion this past season with Lokomotiv Moscow. Considering the player was inactive for some time, it is remarkable how he is able to produce some of his best ever performances in the winter of his career. Christian Cueva is another Peruvian player who runs his heart out for his country, the Brazilan based midfielder will link up with a host of interesting options.  The ex-Sporting Lisbon winger Andre Carrillo and Edison Flores both have the quality to beat a player and score goals. Feyenoord's Renato Tapia is the young star of this team and is the composure in the midfield, scouts will be waiting to see how he fears in Russia. 

Head Coach: Ricardo Alberto Gareca 

Population: 32 million

Appearances: 4

Best: Quarter Finals 1970

How they Qualified: Peru World Cup qualification campaign started off horribly losing  4 of their first 6 games. In fact, Peru lost their 7th game against Bolivia, however, Bolivia fielded an illegible player and Peru was handed a real boost by being awarded that game. Peru got all the momentum they needed and only failed to get point from 2 of their last 11 games. The competitiveness of South American qualifying and their poor start meant a strong final push was only good enough for an intercontinental playoff. A 2-0 two-leg victory over New Zealand was enough for Peru to return to their first World Cup since 1982. 

Star Players: Jefferson Farfan (Lokomotiv), Christian Cueva(Sao Paulo), Renato Tapia(Feyenoord), Paolo Guerrero(Flamengo), Andre Carrillo(Watford)

Wildcard: Edison Flores- The Danish-based player will be expected to maintain the great condition he showed in the qualifiers. The player enjoys running with the ball and has the know how to provide Farfan and Guerro with plenty of opportunities.

Legend: Teófilo Cubillas