3️⃣ points as Lionel Messi hits winner for Argentina against Brazil | OneFootball

It was a good night for Argentina as they edged Brazil 1-0 in Saudi Arabia on Friday.

Here are three points we took from the game …

A tale of two penalties

Big games like this are often decided by moments – this one just happened to be decided by two penalties.

Gabriel Jesus did brilliantly to earn Brazil a penalty early on, dancing between defenders before being tripped by Leandro Paredes.

But his effort was sent embarrassingly wide after a brief stutter, meaning he has now missed more penalties in his career (5) than scored (4).

Lionel Messi then earned Argentina a penalty, teasing Alex Sandro and baiting him into a needless challenge just minutes later.

The Barça man saw his initial effort saved by Alisson but there was no mistake made from the rebound. Practice makes perfect, eh?

Midfield maestros

You can’t draw too many conclusions from friendlies but Argentina’s midfield pivot were absolutely brilliant in Riyadh.

Leandro Paredes welcomed responsibility in deeper areas, distributed well and despite giving away a sloppy penalty, was tenacious and energetic throughout.

Alongside him was Rodrigo De Paul who was box-to-box in every sense. Combative, technically secure and supporting the attack at every opportunity – they really set the tone.

Both players have endured mixed seasons at club level. No such issues were present here.

Brazil lacked magic

There was no shortage of attacking talent on the pitch but Brazil struggled to make an impact going forward.

Jesus and Roberto Firmino were treading on each other’s toes, Willian was peripheral and Lucas Paquetá was often lacking final ball.

Even Richarlison and Rodrygo Goes – despite their best intentions – failed to create anything of note.

Neymar undoubtedly makes a difference to this frontline but maybe on a wider note they lack confidence?

That’s now five games without a win for O Selecão.