Peru national football team results (1927–1979)

The Peru national football team's performance between 1927 and 1979 marks a significant era in its history. This period encompasses the team's debut on the international stage, its formative years, and its emergence as a competitive force in South American football.

Early Years (1927-1930s): Peru's first official international match was at the 1927 South American Championship (now Copa América) hosted in Lima. During these early championships, Peru faced established powerhouses like Argentina and Uruguay, gaining valuable experience. The team participated in the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930 held in Uruguay, where they were eliminated in the first round.

Development and Copa América (1940s-1960s): The following decades saw Peru participate regularly in the Copa América, often finishing in the middle of the pack. While not consistently winning the tournament, they displayed flashes of brilliance and produced notable players. The period was characterized by a gradual improvement in the team's tactical approach and overall competitiveness.

Golden Age (1970s): The 1970s are widely considered Peru's golden era. Under the guidance of coaches like Didi and with star players such as Teófilo Cubillas, Héctor Chumpitaz, and Hugo Sotil, Peru achieved significant success. They qualified for the 1970 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, reaching the quarter-finals and captivating audiences with their attacking style of play.

Further World Cup Appearances (1978-1979): Peru qualified for the 1978 FIFA World Cup in Argentina, reaching the second round. Their performance, however, was controversial and marked by allegations of match-fixing. The team participated in Copa América tournaments during this time, maintaining a reasonable level of competition. The 1979 Copa América saw Peru reach the semi-finals, highlighting their continued presence amongst the leading South American teams.

This period concluded with a shift in the team's fortunes, preceding a period of less consistent success in subsequent decades. The results from 1927 to 1979 laid the foundation for Peru's footballing identity and remain a significant part of the national team's legacy. Records of specific match results, scorers, and tournament standings are available through various football archives and databases.