Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni has a big call to make over Lionel Messi for his side's World Cup 2022 qualifying clash with Brazil on Tuesday.

The Paris Saint-Germain attacker was controversially called up to the squad in spite of his hamstring and knee pain but was fit enough to play 15 minutes against Uruguay last time out.

Scaloni affirmed that Messi's cameo was to prepare him for the meeting with the Selecao, so the 34-year-old could therefore be deemed fit to start in a move that will not go down well with his club.

Scaloni was handed a scare over Paulo Dybala in the win over Uruguay, and while his half-time substitution was only thought to be a precaution, Messi could displace him in the side this week.

Angel Di Maria ought to hold his place after netting the winner against Uruguay, with Lautaro Martinez leading the charge if Dybala is not passed fit to start.

La Albiceleste otherwise have no reason to make any more alterations, with Tottenham Hotspur pair Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero both featuring from the first whistle.

Argentina have now kept five clean sheets on the bounce and therefore ought to stick with the same backline for Tuesday's clash, with Nahuel Molina, Nicolas Otamendi and Marcos Acuna all holding their places.

Argentina possible starting lineup: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Acuna; Lo Celso, Rodriguez, De Paul; Di Maria, Martinez, Messi

> Click here to see how Brazil could line up for this clash

Written by
Ben Knapton