RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AFP) - Lionel Messi struck on his return to international duty Friday following a three-month ban as Argentina defeated fierce rivals Brazil 1-0 in a friendly in Riyadh.
The Barcelona forward was suspended by CONMEBOL for accusing South American football's ruling body of "corruption" after he was sent off in July's third-place play-off with Chile at the Copa America.
Messi netted the only goal of the game at the King Saud University Stadium on 13 minutes, tapping home the rebound after his penalty was saved by Brazil goalkeeper Alisson.
His effort came shortly after Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus rolled a spot-kick wide for Brazil, who were playing without the injured Neymar.
However, Brazil were unable to find an equalizer as their winless run since capturing the Copa America title extended to five matches.
"It's important to win and it is always nice to beat Brazil, for the rivalry, which feels a lot of late," said Messi.
****Lionel Messi scored his 69th Argentina goal to earn his country a narrow win over Brazil