USMNT vs. Peru: Opponent Profile, Recent Form & History

The U.S. Men’s National Team is back on the pitch next month for the first time since its historic run at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The squad will face Peru on September 26 at Inter.co Stadium in Orlando, Fla., in the first of four matches set for the international break.

Here’s everything you need to know about Peru ahead of the upcoming clash with the Stars and Stripes.

When is the USMNT vs. Peru match?

The USMNT will face Peru in the Fan Appreciation Match on Saturday, September 26, at Inter.co Stadium in Orlando, Fla., at 4:30 p.m. ET. The match will be broadcast on TNT, truTV, HBO Max, Telemundo, Universo and Peacock.

What is the all-time history between the USMNT and Peru?

Through seven all-time meetings, the USMNT are 3W-2L-2D against Peru, though their last matchup was nearly eight years ago. On Oct. 16, 2018, the sides drew 1-1 in East Hartford, Conn., with Josh Sargentputting the U.S. on the board early in the second half.

All seven matches were international friendlies except for one on Feb. 16, 2000, in the group stage of the Concacaf Gold Cup. USMNT all-time appearance leader Cobi Jones headed home the game’s only goal off a cross from Eddie Lewis in the 59th minute to give the U.S. a 1-0 victory.

What is Peru’s world ranking?

Peru is currently ranked 50th in the FIFA Coca-Cola Men’s World Rankings, rising three spots from the beginning of 2026.

Did Peru play in FIFA World Cup 2026 and what is their recent form?

Peru did not qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 after finishing ninth (2W-10L-6D) in the CONMEBOL qualifiers last year. The team has played four matches in 2026 with a record of 1W-2L-1D. In March, Peru fell 2-0 to Senegal before drawing 2-2 against Honduras. In the June window just before the World Cup, Peru defeated Haiti 2-1 before falling 3-1 to the eventual champions Spain.

Who is Peru’s head coach?

The Peruvians are led by 64-year-old Luiz Menezes, also known as Mano Menezes. The Brazilian-born manager had a short playing career before moving into coaching in 1992. Menezes coached multiple youth and senior clubs throughout Brazil for nearly two decades before he was appointed head coach of the Brazil national team following the squad’s quarterfinal exit in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

During his two years with the Brazil national team, Menezes accrued a record of 21W-6L-6D. He led the team to the quarterfinals of the 2011 Copa América as well as guided the U-23 team to the final of the 2012 Olympic Games. He returned to managing clubs in Brazil, China and Saudi Arabia before he was appointed as head coach of the Peru national team on a four-year contract in January of 2026.

Who are key Peruvian players to watch?

The most capped player on the Peru national team is 36-year-old Yoshimar Yotún. The captain has made 134 appearances for Peru as a defensive midfielder since making his debut in 2011. He was a part of the 2018 World Cup squad – Peru’s first tournament appearance in 36 years – and he competed in all three group stage matches. Should Yotún be on Menezes’ roster next month, it would be a homecoming as Yotún spent two seasons with MLS club Orlando City SC and was named an All-Star in 2018, before heading to Liga MX’s Cruz Azul and later Peruvian club Sporting Cristal, where he currently competes.

A return could also be in the works for goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, who became an Orlando City legend during his time with the club from 2020-2025. Gallese holds club records in most minutes played for a goalkeeper (18,188), saves (568), wins (89) and clean sheets (57). With Peru, Gallese has tallied 127 caps, including three in the 2018 World Cup, along with helping the team earn bronze at the 2015 Copa América.