Feel the heart of Peru: Watch a match at the National Stadium
Experience football in Lima: Feel the passion of La Blanquirroja at the National Stadium
If you visit Lima and want to experience something that beats with the same strength as our culture, cuisine, or landscapes, you cannot miss a match of the Peruvian national team at the National Stadium. In Peru, football is not just a sport: it is emotion, identity, and celebration. Although the road to the 2026 World Cup has come to an end, the passion of La Blanquirroja remains stronger than ever. Every match in Lima is a true fiesta — a chance to feel the roar of thousands of fans, the rhythm of the drums, and the unbreakable spirit that makes Peruvian football unforgettable.
Peru’s football journey
The Peruvian national football team, affectionately known as La Bicolor or La Blanquirroja, has once again shown the passion and heart that make football such a vital part of Peruvian identity. Although the dream of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup has come to an end, the team’s spirit continues to unite millions of fans across the country.
Every match in Lima remains a celebration — a chance to wear the red and white, sing the national anthem with thousands, and feel the unbreakable connection between players and supporters. Whether it’s a friendly match or a qualifier for future tournaments, the National Stadium becomes a stage where the country’s love for football shines brighter than ever.
The National Stadium: An icon in the heart of Lima
Peru’s National Stadium, also known as El Coloso de José Díaz, is much more than a sports venue. Located in the center of Lima, this stadium is part of South American football history. With a capacity of more than 50,000 spectators, modern stands, state-of-the-art lighting, and a unique atmosphere, El Nacional is the perfect stage for the national team’s most important matches. It was remodeled in 2011 and has since then hosted major sporting events, international concerts, and, of course, the matches that make all Peruvians vibrate with pride.
Attending a game here means living a collective celebration. From the chants echoing in the stands to the shared nerves before each penalty, the energy is contagious.
Who has the best football fans in the world?
One of the reasons why watching a match in Lima is such a unique experience is because of its people. The Peruvian fans were awarded by FIFA in 2018 as the best supporters in the world, during the “The Best” awards ceremony in London. During the 2018 Russia World Cup, although Peru did not advance to the next round, the passion, joy, and respect of Peruvian fans were recognized globally. The official supporters group, La Blanquirroja, brought color and national spirit to every corner of Moscow, Saransk, and Sochi. Attending the stadium is not just about watching football, it is about being part of a cultural spectacle full of music, jerseys, drums, and a collective emotion hard to describe.
The team’s key players
The team, currently led by Manuel Barreto, has players with great experience and strong connection to the fans:
Paolo Guerrero: National idol and historic top scorer for the team. Currently plays for Alianza Lima, and his leadership remains fundamental.
Gianluca Lapadula: Born in Italy to a Peruvian mother. Since joining, he has won the hearts of fans with his total commitment on the field. Currently plays for Spezia in Italy’s Serie B.
Luis Advíncula: Fast and fierce right-back, a key piece in the defense. Plays for Boca Juniors, one of Argentina’s biggest clubs.
Oliver Sonne: Player of Peruvian-Danish nationality from the Peru national team. He plays as a full-back and currently plays for Burnley Football Club in England.
These names, among others, represent the hope of millions of Peruvians dreaming to see their country back in a World Cup.
Is it safe to watch a Peru game in El Nacional?
This is an open invitation to everyone visiting Lima! Many travelers wonder about safety after seeing news or social media posts, but watching a Peru match feels safer than attending most local Liga 1 games. Everyone in and around the stadium root for one team, a lot of people walk to the stadium with kids and elderly to avoid traffic and it really feels like a big party. This is an invitation to people visiting Lima to come and visit El Nacional. Buying a ticket to see the national team is not just getting a pass; it is opening a window to Peruvian identity.
You will be able to:
Enjoy a unique atmosphere full of color and emotion.
Meet Peruvians at their highest expression of national pride.
Witness the intensity of South American football, where every game feels like a final!
Explore downtown Lima, with its plazas, museums, and restaurants before or after the match.
How to get tickets to watch Peru in El Nacional?
Tickets for national team matches are sold through official channels such as Joinnus.com or the Peruvian Football Federation (FPF) website. It is recommended to purchase them in advance as they usually sell out quickly.
Because football is also culture
In Peru, football is history, passion, tradition… and yes, also a reason to travel. If you are looking for an experience that connects you with the soul of the country, there is no better place than the National Stadium on match day. Dare to wear the jersey, sing with thousands of voices, and feel how Lima vibrates when La Blanquirroja plays.
What games does Peru football team have left in 2025?
Even though Peru won’t be playing at El Nacional for the rest of 2025, the team has a couple of friendly matches scheduled for November — and they promise to be exciting. We’re going back to Russia!
Wedenesday, November 12th - Rusia vs Perú - TBD
Tuesday, November 18th - Chile vs Perú - TBD
Sources
Federacion Peruana de Futbol (FPF) - fpf.org.pe
La Blanquirroja - lablanquirroja.com.pe
Joinnus - joinnus.com