Messi back for Argentina’s World Cup duel with Brazil

Lionel Messi was named in Argentina’s squad for their heavyweight World Cup clash against bitter rivals Brazil on Friday having missed the last three fixtures through injury. Messi had been sidelined from international duty with a thigh injury but buoyed by a midweek hat-trick for Barcelona in the Champions League against Manchester City, he returns to an Argentina team struggling in fifth spot in World Cup qualifying.

Messi to appeal 21-month sentence for tax fraud

Barcelona star player Lionel Messi has said he will appeal the court ruling, declaring him guilty of tax fraud.