Peru to struggle in opener with Venezuela

The enthralling summer of football gathers pace this Saturday with the beginning of the Copa America as hosts Brazil take on Bolivia, second comes a very evenly matched tie as Venezuela play Peru, the two teams most likely to be fighting for second spot in Group A. The Peruvians will be hoping for better fortunes than they had in last year’s World Cup when they frustratingly failed to make it out of the group having showcased their clear talent at times but without the composure to progress. Venezuela are the in-form side in this encounter but that will go out the window in tournament football with the nations having a very even recent head to head record.

Venezuela’s positive build up

La Vinotinto put an end to three games without a win in their last warm-up match, a convincing 3-0 demolition of the USA. They thrive when their tales are up, with their last four wins in all competitions being by a margin of two goals or more, only conceding once in those clashes. Venezuela will look to make it 12 games on the bounce where they have got on the scoresheet on Saturday evening. Contrastingly they have only managed three clean sheets in their last 11 internationals with both teams finding the net on eight of those occasions.

Peru’s recent form

Peru come into the Copa America somewhat struggling for form. They have not responded well to going a goal down of late because their last six losses have all been by two or more goals. However, they have kept a clean sheet in all of their last six victories. Laying a solid foundation and getting a foothold in the game will be crucial for them to get off to a positive start in the competition. Both teams have scored in just two of their last eight games.

Battle of the frontmen

Venezuela’s talisman striker, Salomon Rondon, comes into the opener in red-hot form for club and country. Four goals in as many matches, he will look to continue his form from the back end of the Premier League season to impress in the tournament, amidst much speculation of a big money takeover at his club, Newcastle United. His opposite number will be the vastly experienced fan favourite that is Pablo Guerrero. Peru’s no. 9 comes into the match off a solid run of his own, having netted five times in his last six appearances for his club side, Internacional who play in the Brazilian top flight.

A cagey opening encounter lies ahead with both nations desperate to stake a claim in Group A. In a match that could go either way Venezuela’s recent form should carry them through to a positive result with Peru still unsure of what their best eleven is.

Venezuela – Peru Betting Tip

Double Chance Venezuela to Win or Draw + Both Team to Score with Bet365 at odds of 15/8.

Bet Double Chance Venezuela to Win or Draw + Both Teams to Score on Bet365