The suspension of Peru captain Paolo Guerrero for their World Cup playoff is a massive blow to the South American side but New Zealand coach Anthony Hudson says it does not make the All Whites' task any easier.
All Whites coach Anthony Hudson Photo: Photosport
Peru's chances of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1982 were dealt a major setback after soccer's governing body FIFA provisionally suspended Guerrero for failing a doping test.
The 33-year-old, Peru's all-time top scorer, netted six goals in the qualifying stage to lead his country to the intercontinental playoff.
"Guerrero is probably irreplaceable in what he does," Hudson told reporters. "I don't think they have anyone that has a physical presence like him and can play the type of game they like to play with him available.
"But the reality is the best part of their team is their front five or six players. Their attacking midfielders, the two sitting in behind and whoever plays up front are all quality players.
"I don't think too much will change other than they won't have that exact type of profile up front."
Peru forward Paolo Guerrero. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Peru coach Ricardo Gareca has called up Vancouver Whitecaps forward Yordy Reyna Serna to replace Guerrero in the squad.
Hudson said his team were focused on Saturday's first-leg in Wellington and were taking nothing for granted.
"Nothing changes in the way we approach the game in terms of our mindset. We don't see this situation and suddenly think we have a better chance now to qualify," he added.
"We know Peru is a good team with or without Guerrero. We're very clear on what we need to do in our team set-up and our shape to give us the best possible chance of winning the game."
The return leg will be held at the Estadio Nacional de Lima in Peru's capital on Nov. 15.
-Reuters
