3 Peru dangermen at 2018 FIFA World Cup

The even nature of Australia’s group for next year’s World Cup means points will be at a premium for all four teams.

Advancing to the knockout stages could come down to getting a result against South American qualifiers Peru on the final matchday.

Here are three players the Caltex Socceroos will need to be wary of come that clash in Sochi on 26 June.

PEDRO GALLESE

Currently at Mexican club Veracruz, Gallese debuted in 2014 and has now established his place as Peru’s starting goalkeeper.

The 27-year-old particularly impressed at the Copa America Centenario in 2015, famously keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 win over Brazil as his nation topped a tough group.

Gallese is now reportedly eyeing a move to Europe and is said to have been recommended to Newcastle United by compatriot and former club legend Nolberto Solano.

The exceptional gloveman could be set for a move to the EPL.
The exceptional gloveman could be set for a move to the EPL.

RENATO TAPIA

Tapia looms as the man most likely to go head-to-head with the likes of Tom Rogic and Australia’s other creative schemers.

A strong, versatile holding midfielder, 22-year-old Tapia has long been recognised as a rising star of Peruvian football and is viewed as a future captain of his country.

He plays alongside Brad Jones at Feyenoord and has accrued eight starts in the Eredevisie this term.

Renato Tapia is considered a Peruvian captain in waiting.
Renato Tapia is considered a Peruvian captain in waiting.

EDISON FLORES

Peru might have to share the goals around in Russia, although spearhead Paolo Guerrero looks set to return after his doping ban was reduced.

But 23-year-old winger Edison Flores, who has broken through to become a regular for AaB in the Danish Superliga, is another Australia's defence must be wary of.

Flores, who had a brief but successful stint with Villarreal B between 2012 and 2014, scored five times during qualification and played 180 minutes of the intercontinental play-off victory over New Zealand.

Edison Flores scored five goals in qualifying.
Edison Flores scored five goals in qualifying.