Peru secure deserved World Cup win over Australia as both bow out

The South Americans knew they were already out of the tournament prior to kick-off, but that didn’t stop them putting in a third lively showing in succession.

Both sides started slowly in the searing heat and 70% humidity of Sochi, with the Socceroos enjoying a series of early chances. Captain Mile Jedinak was cautioned in the opening minutes for a dangerous high boot on Christian Cueva - an offence that might have warranted a more serious punishment.

Peru soon found their rhythm and opened the scoring somewhat against the run of play, when Cueva broke into the left side of the box and cut a diagonal aerial ball back to Andre Carillo.

The Benfica forward made no mistake in dispatching a sublime volley for Peru’s first goal of the tournament.

Tom Rogic enjoyed a fine performance and nearly found the equaliser when he picked up the ball 20 yards from goal, and proceeded to beat three defenders. His eventual shot, however, was parried for a corner.

The Peruvians doubled their advantage shortly after the break, when Cueva’s speculative shot was deflected into the path of Paolo Guerrero on the edge of the six-yard box.

The 34-year-old, who is Peru’s all-time leading scorer, brought his tally to 36 international goals.

Substitute Tim Cahill - making his fourth World Cup appearance - was ultimately unable to make the difference against a Peruvian side who controlled much of the game.

The Peruvians have been a credit to the tournament - from their fans to their style of play on the field. They gave their fans a nice parting gift in Russia, but it was arguably the worst of their performances in the groups. If they had started their campaign against Australia, instead of Denmark, might things have panned out differently?

In what may be his international swan song, the 34-year-old captain played a near-perfect game, assisting the opener and putting the tie out of reach with the second.

Australia
Ryan 6, Milligan 6, Leckie 6, Juric 6, Kruse 5, Mooy 7, Jedinak 6, Behich 6, Risdon 6, Sainsbury 7, Rogic 7
Subs: Arzani 7, Cahill 6, Irvine 6

Peru
Gallese 7, Advincula 7, Ramos 7, Santamaria 7, Trauco 6, Tapia 6, Yotun 7, Carrillo , Flores 7, Cueva 8, Guerrero 8
Subs: Cartanega 6, Hurtado 7, Aquino 7

18 - GOAL! Cueva breaks into the box and lifts the ball back to Andre Carillo near the edge of the area - he hammers in a right-footed volley!

28 - CHANCE! Rogic receives the ball at the top of the box, beats three defenders and sees his shot saved!

50 - GOAL! Cueva builds up play on the left hand side of the box and shoots. It's deflected and Guerrero poaches his 36th goal for the Incas!

80 - CHANCE! Peru break with Guerrero, who cuts it back for Cueva - his shot rattles off the post!

Peru’s goal was their first of the tournament - and their 28th shot of the tournament.

In four games against South American sides at the World Cup, Australia have scored only one goal and managed just one point.

Australia have conceded in each of their last 12 World Cup matches. Their last clean sheet was a 0-0 with Chile in 1974.