Absence of Lionel Messi points to an interest in Brazil

International friendly
Freesports, 7pm Tuesday

Brazil against Argentina is never entirely a friendly match whatever the venue and the Selecao can be fancied to secure another victory over their South American rivals in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Brazil have lost only two of their 29 games under Tite and have registered three victories since their World Cup quarter-final defeat by Belgium.

Those wins were against lesser rivals in the USA, El Salvador and Saudi Arabia, who they beat 2-0 on Friday, but they are strong favourites to get revenge for their 1-0 friendly defeat the last time they played Argentina in June 2017.

After a lacklustre World Cup campaign, Tite's men will look to continue their run of form under tough conditions.

The Battle of the South Americans rarely disappoints in terms of flair and style, although this one will be missing the magic of Lionel Messi, who is taking a break from international football.

Neymar set up Gabriel Jesus for Brazil's opening goal against the Saudis and their quick, attack­ing play should prove problematic for the Messi-less Argentina.

Paulo Dybala and Mauro Icardi are set to spearhead Argentina's efforts but despite their perform­ances for their clubs, they have struggled to find the net for their country.

Dybala played throughout Argentina's 4-0 friendly win over Iraq on Thursday but the goals came from Lautaro Martinez, Roberto Pereyra, German Pezzella and Franco Cervi.

Breaching Brazil's backline is likely to prove much tougher as the Belgium game was the only one of their last seven matches in which they have conceded.

The Canarinha are fancied to keep another clean sheet and secure a prized derby victory.

Recommendation
Brazil to win to nil
1pt 17-11 188Bet

Bet on this match at Soccerbase.com

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