Luis Iberico is back in the Peru squad under Mano Menezes, and the Sporting Cristal striker has a clear chance to press his case in Friday’s friendly against Bolivia. His recent form at club level earned him the call-up, and he is hoping to turn that into minutes on the pitch.
A goalscorer in form
Iberico has been one of the most productive forwards in Peru this season. He has scored 11 goals in 26 appearances for Sporting Cristal, making him the club’s top scorer in the campaign, as the Lima side continue to fight for the Torneo Clausura. That return is what convinced Menezes to include him, as the Brazilian coach looks for fresh attacking options for the current cycle.
Iberico said he felt he had been doing the right things at his club, and that this was the reason the national team came calling. He added that he is happy, confident and hopes to get game time with the national side.
Memories of the youth ranks
The 28-year-old has represented Peru at several youth levels, from the Under-15 side through to the Under-17 and Under-20 teams. He recalled winning a South American Under-15 championship in which he also finished as the tournament’s leading scorer, a memory he describes with obvious fondness.
Looking for wins
Iberico is aware that the team’s lack of victories is a problem that needs fixing quickly. Although this is a new project with several newcomers, he believes results are essential to keep supporters behind the coaching staff and the direction Menezes is setting.
Bolivia friendly
The match will be played on Friday, 13 November 2026, at 8:00 p.m. Peruvian time at the Estadio Alejandro Villanueva, known as Matute, in La Victoria. It will mark the Peru team’s return to playing on home soil under Menezes. The game will be shown on America TV, including its high-definition channel, and streamed via America tvGO, as well as on Bicolor+ Premium through TV360 by Bitel.
The big question for Menezes is whether Iberico will be introduced from the bench or given a place in the starting line-up.
Source: depor.com
