CARACAS, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Christian Cueva struck a superb second-half free-kick as Peru secured a 2-1 victory over Venezuela in their 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier here on Tuesday.
Standing on the edge of the 18-yard box, Cueva sent a looping effort over the defensive wall and into the far corner, sparking delirious celebrations from the visitors' bench.
Gianluca Lapadula had given Peru the lead with an 18th-minute header at the far post following Andre Carrillo's cross.
Darwin Marchis equalized just after halftime by latching onto Ronald Hernandez's delivery from the right flank with a low first-time shot.
Machis went from hero to villain when he missed a penalty following Cueva's strike as Peru marched to their fifth victory of the campaign and second in as many matches.
The result leaves Peru with 17 points from 14 qualifiers as they maintain their hopes of securing a spot at their second consecutive World Cup. Venezuela are last in the 10-team South American zone standings with seven points.
Earlier on Tuesday, Juan Arce scored twice to fire Bolivia to a 3-0 win over Uruguay in La Paz. Enditem
