Sydney FC’s Peruvian international Piero Quispe is set to make his first home appearance for the Sky Blues when they face Central Coast Mariners at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday night (7.35pm kick off) — and the young midfielder is eager to help his new side secure their first win of the season.
The match brings an intriguing subplot, with Mariners goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne — a former Sydney FC fan favourite — returning to face his old club. Redmayne famously saved the decisive penalty for the Socceroos in the World Cup playoff against Peru in 2022, a result that denied Quispe’s home nation a place at Qatar.
While Quispe wasn’t part of that Peruvian squad, there’s added motivation for the 23-year-old as he looks to make his mark against the Socceroos shot-stopper and guide Sydney FC to victory in front of a packed Sky Blue crowd.
“I’ve been really happy here,” said Quispe. “Honestly, I didn’t expect such a great welcome, so I want to thank everyone who came out. I feel very peaceful and settled in Australia, and I’m motivated to give my best every day to bring joy to the team and the fans.”
The talented playmaker, who joined Sydney FC from Pumas UNAM in Mexico, became the first Peruvian to play in the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s competition and has quickly impressed with his technical ability and energy in midfield.
“I saw this as a big challenge in my career,” he explained. “The league is very competitive, and I’m focused on training hard and performing well in every session and every game.”
Quispe also spoke of the similarities between Sydney FC’s youthful new squad and Peru’s next generation of international talent.
“Like Sydney FC, the national team is renewing itself with young players who are doing really well,” he said. “I’m working hard here so I can earn another call-up soon.”
As he prepares for his home debut at “the 8th Wonder of the World,” Quispe has a clear message for Sky Blue supporters.
“Thank you so much for your support,” he added. “Stay with us through the good times and the tough ones — we’re working hard every day to make you proud and bring you plenty of reasons to celebrate.”
🎟️ Tickets for Saturday’s match at Leichhardt Oval are on sale now at sydneyfc.com/tickets.
