The Peruvian star was key to help Los Incas' campaign to play in Russia after a 36-year absence from the competition.

Perú's chances of success in the 2018 World Cup have been handed a massive blow, as striker Paolo Guerrero has been banned from playing the competition after testing positive in a doping test.

Guerrero tested positive for cocaine, as a metabolite of the drug was found in his urine following the game between Argentina and Peru back in October.

FIFA's Disciplinary Board has revealed that, even though they are aware that Guerrero did not use the drug, the amount found in his system was enough to have him banned for a year, which would prevent him from playing in the World Cup.

Guerrero's five goals in the Qualifiers were key to help Perú reach the playoff spot in CONMEBOL, ahead of reigning Copa América Champions Chile.

Guerrero's attorney, Pedro Fida, revealed that the player will appeal this decision as soon as possible, since they believe he can have his sentence reduced to six months, which would give him time to prepare for the quatrennial competition.

"Our evidence is convincing enough. The low amounts found in his test don't justify such a decision. We're shocked and disappointed by FIFA's ruling, especially because they admitted Paolo is not a frequent cocaine user," Fida stated.

"We will appeal this decision, we'll keep searching for justice until the last consequences," the attorney concluded.

Guerrero is the all-time top scorer for Perú, and played for nine years in the German top flight, splitting his time between Bayern Munich (3 years) and Hamburg (9 years).