The duel between Peru vs. Chile, for the third match of the South American Qualifiers 2026, started with a lot of intensity at the Monumental Stadium in Santiago. Both teams came out strong, looking to break the tie. However, at the beginning of the match, the 'Roja' suffered an unexpected setback: Matías Catalán was forced to leave the field due to an injury.
It was the 8th minute of the match and the full-back received the ball on the right side. Although everything seemed to indicate that the player was running normally, he kicked the ball out of bounds. Immediately, he fell to the ground, showing signs of pain, pointing to discomfort in his right knee.
As expected, the medical staff of the Chilean National Team entered the field, with the aim of assisting the player. However, after undergoing some quick tests, Catalán returned to the game, although he would soon ask to be substituted. In response, Eduardo Berizzo chose to bring in Paulo Díaz, replacing the defender.
Peru vs. Chile: What's next for them
After this match in Santiago, the Peruvian National Team will play again next week when they host Argentina for the 4th round of the 2026 Qualifiers. This match is scheduled for Tuesday, October 17, starting at 9:00 p.m., at the National Stadium and will be broadcast throughout Peru on ATV, América TV, and Movistar Deportes. In Argentina, it will be shown exclusively on TyC Sports and TV Pública.
Let's remember that the last time the 'Albiceleste' visited our country was during the previous Qatar 2022 Qualifiers, with a 0-2 defeat of the team then coached by Ricardo Gareca. Nicolás González (17') and Lautaro Martínez (28') scored the goals for Lionel Scaloni's side, in a match where the 'Bicolor' was clearly outplayed and couldn't find a way to harm the team that would later become world champions.
Chile, on the other hand, will also be back in action next week when they visit Venezuela for the fourth matchday of the 2026 Qualifiers. This match is scheduled for Tuesday, October 17, starting at 4:00 p.m., at the Monumental Stadium in Maturín and will be broadcasted by ByM Sports, SimpleTV, and Venevisión in the home country; while in Chile, it will be available on Chilevisión.
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