Career
One of Peru"s greatest football players, Cueto was renowned for his agility, close control and passing range. Club career
He started his professional career with a local club Alianza Lima in 1969, and between 1973 and 1974 he was on loan with the teams José Galvez and Deportivo Municipal. He is also considered Atlético Nacional"s most renowned player, and was Carlos Valderrama"s favorite player and initial inspiration.
He signed with América de Cali in 1984, winning another league title that year with the club also as captain and team leader.
After an injury in 1985, he retired from the national team but returned to play for Alianza after the 1987 air disaster. Another injury struck him in 1988, forcing him away from playing.
He played irregularly until his definite retirement in 1991. International career
Cueto was part of the Peru team which eliminated Colombia and Uruguay in the World Cup Qualifiers in 1981.
After losing to New York Cosmos, it went on to defeat Inter Milan and both the Hungary and France national teams.
Cueto is best remembered for his great performance in the match against France of Platini on 28 April 1982 in Paris, which the France press acclaimed Peru national team as "one of the best teams in the world". With 2 draws and 1 defeat, Peru finished at the bottom of their group went out in the first round. Cueto himself had a disappointing tournament, Peru failed to advance to the next round, despite having an excellent team
Also noteworthy was his strong appearance in the World Cup qualifying match against the Argentina in Buenos Aires in 1985, He contributed a scintillating pass to Geronimo Barbadillo for go-ahead goal (the game ended in a tie).
Participation in the World Cup
Individual awards
1980 Peruvian Football player of the year.