Peru and Venezuela face off in a shockingly pivotal game for the Copa America Group C qualification.

Coming into the tournament, both sides were viewed as minnows that would duke it out for third place in the group behind Colombia and Brazil. Most expected this game to be the only three points that these teams would have any hopes of claiming.

How wrong everyone was.

Venezuela put up a heroic effort in its 1-0 win over Colombia that included discipline, high line pressing and opportunism to create goal scoring chances and the eventual goal. Venezuela could have easily won this match by more than one goal with better finishing, but that was not necessary.

What mattered is that the Venezuelans managed to kill off a Colombian attack that looked like it could take down any side at this point last year.

However, Peru is no slouch either. Despite losing 2-1 against Brazil at the death of its opening game, the team looked rather intelligent with the ball. There were many spells of possession that had the Peruvians running circles around Brazil and opening up space for attack.

The team did wear down as the match progressed and eventually their aggressiveness to score the winner left the team open and vulnerable at the back.

It should be interesting to see which of the two sides winds up with the ball.

The winner, however, will be greatly rewarded.

With a win, Venezuela would qualify for the knockout rounds if Colombia loses to Brazil. Peru, meanwhile, could find itself with a chance to qualify against Colombia if it beats Venezuela.

Peru wins if... It plays a direct attacking style and does not allow Venezuela's pressure game get to them.

Venezuela wins if... It pressures Peru into mistakes and makes them pay. Peru is solid but not as good as Colombia and could be had if its mistakes are capitalized on.

Prediction: Peru wins 1-0.

The game starts at 7:30 p.m. EST and can be viewed on beIN Sport. It is also available for live stream on beIN Sports online service with the subscription.