International Friendlies
Jun 9, 2017 11.05am
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HT : 0 1
FT Melbourne Cricket Ground
  • Paulinho 79' yellowcard
  • Rafinha 80' yellowcard
  • yellowcard Jonathan Maidana 31'
  • goal Gabriel Mercado 45'

Team News: Lionel Messi starts for Argentina against Brazil

Messi starts for Argentina versus Brazil

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's starting lineup for their friendly international with Brazil in Melbourne.

In March, the Barcelona star was suspended for four international fixtures but after having the ban lifted, he can now take his place in the starting lineup against his nation's South American rivals.

He features in a strong team which includes Juventus duo Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain, while Sergio Romero and Nicolas Otamendi - who play for Manchester United and Manchester City respectively - are the sole representatives from the Premier League.

As for Brazil, four players who are based in England have been selected, with Fernandinho, Philippe Coutinho, Gabriel Jesus and Willian all being chosen by coach Tite.

Filipe Luis and Paulinho - who have played for Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur in the past - also feature, while Weverton and Fagner make their second and third appearances respectively.

Brazil: Weverton; Fagner, Thiago Silva, Gil, F.Luis; Paulinho, Fernandinho, Augusto; Coutinho, Gabriel Jesus, Willian

Argentina: Romero; Mercado, Maidana, Otamendi; Gomez, Biglia, Banega; Dybala, Messi, Di Maria; Higuain

Follow the action in Australia with Sports Mole's live commentary.

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