Peru’s bid to qualify for their first FIFA World Cup in 36 years (since the 1982 edition in Spain) received a massive boost after they played a battling goalless draw at New Zealand earlier on Saturday.

The 0-0 result firmly puts the South American nation in the driving seat with both sides expected to meet again in the second leg clash of their intercontinental playoff in Lima on Wednesday, November 15.

New Zealand emerged as Oceania champions while Peru finished 5th and in the playoff spot behind the likes of Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Colombia. These countries have already secured their places in Russia via the automatic route.