Messi scores on return to sink Brazil

Riyadh, November 16

Lionel Messi struck on his return to international duty following a three-month ban as Argentina defeated fierce rivals Brazil 1-0 in a friendly in Riyadh.

The Barcelona forward was suspended by CONMEBOL for accusing South American football’s ruling body of “corruption” after he was sent off in July’s third-place playoff with Chile at the Copa America.

Messi netted the only goal of the game at the King Saud University Stadium on 13 minutes last night, tapping home the rebound after his penalty was saved by Brazil goalkeeper Alisson.

His effort came shortly after Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus rolled a spot-kick wide for Brazil, who were playing without the injured Neymar. Messi, who scored with a pair of free-kicks in his last game with Barcelona, twice threatened from set-pieces in the second half before Liverpool ‘keeper Alisson beat away a powerful drive from Leandro Paredes.

However, Brazil were unable to find an equaliser as their winless run since capturing the Copa America title extended to five matches. “It’s important to win and it is always nice to beat Brazil, for the rivalry, which feels a lot of late,” said Messi. “It’s good for everything that is to come, to continue growing while looking towards the qualifiers and the next Copa America (in 2020).” — AFP