Argentina have been handed a huge boost as Lionel Messi will return to the squad after a three-match absence to take on Brazil in a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
La Albiceleste have not enjoyed the best of starts to their World Cup campaign, and will be hoping to return to winning ways as they take on a formidable Brazilian outfit.
Argetina head-coach can breathe a huge sigh of relief as his captain and star attacker Lionel Messi is set to return to the fray after a three-game absence. His presence will certainly help the visitors who are rank outsiders going into the game.
The Barcelona forward is likely to be supplemented in the attack by Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero who has been on a bit of a roll himself. Angel di Maria is also expected to be named in the starting eleven – forming a deadly front trio.
However, Argentina are a bit short of quality and leadership at the back, and may suffer a resounding defeat should the Brazilian forwards have a good game.
For the hosts, manager Tite has already named his starting eleven for the game and has decided to include Marcelo. The left-back has been missing in action for several weeks for club and country, but it looks like he is ready to take the field and replace Felipe Luis in the team.
In midfield, Fernandinho is expected to play the deepest among his other two counterparts in the centre of the field. Renato Augusto and Paulinho will be tasked with the role to push forward and make things happen for the side in the final third.
Golden boy Neymar led from the front and guided the Brazilian contingent to a gold medal at Rio 2016. He is likely to start as a left-winger and will be keen on putting up a good show in front of his home fans.
Charismatic midfielder Philippe Coutinho has been named in the playing eleven, but his Liverpool compatriot Roberto Firmino will have to be content with a spot on the bench. However, given the 25-year-old’s recent form, he is likely to be brought on as an impact sub by Tite.
