arrived in the southern Andean city of Cusco on Wednesday taking fans by surprise as they had not expected the visit of the Italy-born striker who —according to media reports— will tour the Sacred Valley of the Incas in the region.
Lapadula —whose goals, charisma, and dedication to the white and red team helped him earn the affection of Peruvian fans around the world— will seek to absorb positive energies following the sad defeat in the qualifying playoff against Australia, which ended the squad's chance to claim a spot at Qatar 2022 World Cup.
According to the images broadcast by Canal N on Wednesday evening, the striker was on the occasion joined by family and friends, in addition to a heavy police contingent, who accompanied the forward on his visit to the Inca capital where both he and his companions boarded a shuttle bus that would take them to a hotel.
Many fans arrived at the surroundings of Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport. Being aware of the illustrious visit, supporters did not hesitate to wait for the "Bambino" to show him affection and gratitude for his great efforts in coach Ricardo Gareca's team.
Earlier, the 32-year-old striker spoke about the sad and surprising elimination of the national team from race towards Qatar 2022 World Cup.
"Although it does hurt, I am very proud of all my brothers; we have done the impossible to achieve it (the qualification). United we will have our revenge! We are the BLANQUIRROJA (Red-White Team)! Go Peru, (let us continue) until the last cartridge is fired!" Lapadula
published on Instagram.
Since his arrival at the national team in October 2020, Lapadula has scored seven goals and represented Peru with integrity and great pride, which prompted him to even leave the soccer field with significant damage in his nasal septum and teeth.
Born in Turin, he is the son of a Peruvian mother and an Italian father.