Brazil not scared of Messi and Argentina despite Neymar absence, says Thiago Silva
The South American giants will come face to face with each other on Friday! And Thiago Silva is excited to face Lionel Messi, the Barcelona's talisman
Brazil captain Thiago Silva is not not stressing about coming up against Lionel Messi in Friday's clash with their arch rivals Argentina, but rather he sees it as an opportunity and a thing of pride to be taking on the Barcelona superstar.
It will interest you to know that Messi is back in the Argentina squad for the first time since the Copa America, in which Brazil beat Argentina 2-0 in July's semi-final.
It was a controversial encounter that earned Messi a four-match ban and a $50,000 fine after accusing CONMEBOL of corruption.
Silva is not viewing the encounter with trepidation or fear but is happy to be facing one of the best despite Neymar's absence due to injury.
We are not concerned but proud to have a chance to face him," Silva told reporters on Monday.
[Argentina] have their star, we won't have ours [Neymar, who is injured], but Brazil is Brazil, and we showed it during our Copa America win.
This match is going to be tough for Brazil for sure without Neymar. But they have many powerhouse in the team and very much capable of defending Argentina.
But as a lover of Argentina foot ball team, I expect Argentina to win.
Yes, Messi is one guy who can make that happen
Messi is a great player, unmatched, the best in the world but Brazil 've faced Argentina before when he played before, and this might just be be just like those times.
Yes it is possible because Messi has not been lucky representing his country.
But if the last COPA game is anything to go by, then Messi might face some disappointments.
But there's no Neymar who could be a clog in the wheel for Messi.
There's a 50:50 winning chance for each side, so it's going to be a very tough one.
Honestly, it is! A very tough one.
Two World superpowers in football, I can hardly make predictions but Brazil without Neymar? I have my doubts because Messi does not need space to score.
Brazil versus Argentina is always a great game to watch, and with great football and scoring chances. I am looking forward to it.
A great game indeed, I'm also looking forward to it!