Feel the heart of Peru: Watch a match at the National Stadium
Experience football in Lima: Support La Blanquirroja on the road to the 2026 World Cup
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. Now more than ever, the country lives intensely the journey of La Blanquirroja towards the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. And you can be part of this story!
Peru’s road to the World Cup
The professional Peruvian national football team, affectionately known as La Bicolor or La Blanquirroja, is in the middle of competing for a spot in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which will feature 48 participating teams for the first time.
Currently, Peru holds ninth place in the South American qualifiers standings, with two wins and six draws. Although the path hasn’t been easy, hope remains. The goal is to reach at least seventh place, which grants access to the intercontinental playoff — a last chance to qualify for the World Cup through a mini knockout tournament.
In September, Peru will face two crucial matches against Uruguay and Paraguay. Both will be played at home: in Lima, at the National Stadium.
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 for more than 50,000 spectators, modern stands, state-of-the-art lighting, and a unique atmosphere, the Nacional is the perfect stage for the national team’s most important matches. It was remodeled in 2011 and since then has hosted sporting events, international concerts, and, of course, the matches that make all Peruvians vibrate.
Attending a game here is living a collective celebration. From the chants echoing in the stands to the shared nerves before each penalty, the energy is contagious.
The best fans in the world
One of the reasons why watching a match in Lima is 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 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 Óscar Ibáñez, 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.
These names, among others, represent the hope of millions of Peruvians dreaming to see their country back in a World Cup.
An invitation to tourists
If you are passing through Lima or planning a trip between August and October this year, we invite you to experience football as Peruvians do. 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
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.