Russia 2018 marks Peru’s return to the FIFA World Cup™ for the first time in 36 years. La Blanquirroja last graced the global finals at Spain 1982, when they boasted the great Teofilo Cubillas among their ranks.

The jewel in the crown of Peru’s golden team, Cubillas – known as El Nene (The Kid) – was regarded as Pele’s successor by the Brazilian himself after his stellar showing at Mexico 1970, where he won Best Young Player. The Peruvian legend reflects on playing at three of Peru’s four World Cups to date, where he amassed 10 goals in just 13 matches, and explains why Pele will always remain his biggest footballing idol.

The above footage is part of FIFA’s archive of videos highlighting significant stories in FIFA World Cup history