WELLINGTON: Peru failed to break down a resolute New Zealand defence in a 0-0 draw in Wellington Saturday to leave their dream of ending a 36-year absence from the World Cup finals hanging by a thread. "Los Incas" failed to score a coveted away goal despite outplaying New Zealand in the opening match of their two-legged World Cup qualifier, with the winner claiming a spot at next year's finals in Russia. Peru, ranked 10th in the world to New Zealand's 122, were the better team but lacked a cutting edge in the absence of goal-scoring captain Paolo Guerrero, who is currently suspended over an "abnormal result" from a drugs test. New Zealand worked tirelessly in defence and they rode their luck at times, but grew in confidence as the game progressed and will be delighted to head into the second leg in Lima on Wednesday on even terms. New Zealand were dealt a blow before kick-off when striker Chris Wood was ruled out of the starting line-up with a hamstring injury.