Miami Gardens, FL – El Clasico del Pacifico! That’s what they call the South American rivalry between Peru and Chile. Played in North America for the first time ever, at Hard Rock stadium, Peru, winners of the 2018 FIFA Fan Award, are coming off their first World Cup since 1982. This is the 2nd time they play in Miami this year, as they took on Croatia in anticipation for their World Cup campaign. Chile, winners of the two previous Copa Americas, failed to qualify for this year’s World Cup in Russia. What have you done for me lately? Ms. Jackson, if you’re nasty.

The first half started a bit testy, with both teams refusing to take any real chances. If you like goals, this probably made you Scream. Peru largely created the most opportunities, but wouldn’t move into the box, aside from center balls through the air. The half ended 0-0. Maybe both squads said Let’s Wait Awhile.

From @HardRockStadium, at halftime, @SeleccionPeru and @LaRoja are all knotted up. 0-0. Despite the score, the match has been very exciting, with Peru dominating the scoring chances. pic.twitter.com/jxOQuNyN7R — Lemon City Live (@LemonCityLive) October 13, 2018

The 2nd half was The Pleasure Principle for Peru. Almost 20 minutes into the half, Andre Carrillo earned a 50/50 ball inside the penalty box, right on the goal line, and took a shot at goal with absolutely no angle, but it Doesn’t Really Matter. He curved it a bit, and Chile’s Enzo Roco, fearing it might bend in, attempted to get a leg in and clear it, but instead helped guide the ball into the back of the net for an own goal. I’m sure he’ll be getting No Sleep over that mistake. 10 minutes later, in the 74th minute, Pedro Aquino subbed in for Renato Tapia, and he proved to be a Black Cat for Chile. Only one minute after coming on, he gave Peru a 2-0 lead, and only 11 minutes after that, solidified La Blanquirroja’s victory by scoring his 2nd goal of the match! That’s The Way Love Goes.

Chile maintained possession for the majority of the match (54%), but Peru had Control. Los Incas outshot La Roja 11-6 and should’ve scored more, not capitalizing off some great chances. Alexis Sanchez’s absence was certainly felt by Chile, and Arturo Vidal probably can’t wait until they’re Together Again. Peru takes the 3-0 win. They played with a tempo and flow, and were the Rhythm Nation tonight. ‘Till we meet Again, soccer fans!

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