With the scorching heat of Barranquilla and a heavy past hanging over their heads, Colombia’s national team had the perfect stage to take a decisive step toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But instead of redemption, fans witnessed another frustrating performance, as the Cafeteros failed to score and settled for a goalless draw against a struggling yet resilient Peruvian side.

Missing star forward Luis Díaz due to suspension and with injuries plaguing their attacking options, Colombia entered the match with pressure mounting. But despite early flashes, including a promising chance in the 20th minute from Jhon Jader Durán, the team fizzled out quickly. James Rodríguez, Juan Camilo ‘Cucho’ Hernández, and Durán were largely ineffective against a disciplined Peruvian defense, expertly anchored by goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.

As the Caribbean sun beat down at 35°C, the match turned into a war of attrition. Peru, led by manager Óscar Ibáñez, approached the game with a pragmatic defensive block, deploying reinforcements in the second half after substituting out veteran Paolo Guerrero. The strategy worked, neutralizing Colombia’s sporadic attacks and dragging the match into a stalemate.

In the second half, Colombian coach Néstor Lorenzo shuffled his deck, bringing on Richard Ríos, Jaminton Campaz, and Marino Hinestroza. But the changes failed to spark creativity. While Colombia held possession, they lacked ideas and penetration, leaving their World Cup qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Now with 21 points, Colombia stays sixth in the CONMEBOL standings, tied with Uruguay but behind on goal difference. The draw also extended their winless streak to five games—a worrying sign ahead of their clash with Argentina in Buenos Aires.

Peru, on the other hand, will see this draw as a lifeline. Despite sitting in ninth place with just 11 points, they remain mathematically alive, chasing the seventh-place playoff spot currently held by Venezuela. With matches against Ecuador and others ahead, their path to qualification is steep—but not impossible.

For Colombia, the shadows of past eliminations continue to loom. The ghost of 2022, when Peru shocked them in Barranquilla to deny a World Cup ticket, returned again—but this time, it was Colombia who couldn’t deliver at home.

The pressure is on. For both sides, the final fixtures will be make-or-break.

Pedro Gallese, the esteemed Peruvian goalkeeper, has seen a notable increase in his net worth, reflecting his pivotal role at Orlando City SC and his enduring presence in international football. As of 2025, Gallese’s annual salary stands at $800,000, positioning him among the top earners in Major League Soccer for his position .

Since joining Orlando City in 2020, Gallese has been instrumental in the team’s defensive strength, earning accolades such as the MLS Save of the Year in 2022 and multiple selections to the MLS Team of the Matchday . His leadership extends beyond the club, as he captains the Peru national team, amassing over 117 international caps .

Gallese’s financial growth is complemented by his ventures off the pitch. In 2020, he launched “Pedro Gallese colección,” a clothing line that gained attention for its social awareness, including Black Lives Matter-themed apparel .

With his contract at Orlando City set to expire on December 31, 2025, Gallese’s future in MLS remains a topic of interest. His consistent performances and leadership qualities suggest that he will continue to be a valuable asset, whether he remains in Orlando or explores opportunities elsewhere.

Juan Camilo “Cucho” Hernández, the dynamic Colombian forward, has seen a significant increase in his net worth following his transfer to Spanish club Real Betis in February 2025. This move not only marks a pivotal point in his career but also underscores his growing financial stature in the world of football.

Hernández’s journey began in Pereira, Colombia, where he showcased his talent with Deportivo Pereira. His impressive performances caught the attention of European clubs, leading to his signing with Watford FC. During his time with Watford, he gained valuable experience through loan spells at clubs like Huesca, Mallorca, and Getafe, honing his skills in competitive European leagues.
In 2022, Hernández made a significant move to Major League Soccer, joining Columbus Crew for a club-record fee of $10 million. His impact was immediate, becoming a key player for the team and earning accolades for his performances. His success in MLS further elevated his market value and attracted interest from top European clubs.

The transition to Real Betis in 2025 marked a return to European football for Hernández. According to Capology, his contract with Betis is valued at €22.56 million over six years, with an annual gross salary of €3.76 million . This substantial contract reflects the club’s confidence in his abilities and their commitment to integrating him into their long-term plans.

As of 2025, Hernández’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million, a figure that encompasses his earnings from contracts, endorsements, and other ventures. His market value has also seen a significant uptick, with Transfermarkt estimating it at €18 million . These figures underscore his growing influence and value in the international football arena.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Hernández has also been involved in various endorsement deals and business ventures, further diversifying his income streams. His commitment to excellence, both on and off the pitch, positions him as a role model for aspiring footballers and highlights the potential for athletes to build substantial wealth through strategic career moves and brand partnerships.