Messi starts Paraguay v Argentina: Team News, Live Scores

(Sporting Alert) — Lionel Messi starts for Argentina in tonight’s World Cup 2014 – CONMEBOL qualifying clash against Paraguay.

Follow Live Score Updates

The Barcelona forward has been struggling with an injury and was doubtful for the contest.

However, he starts in the attack and captain the team as they seek the victory that would see Argentina qualifying for the World Cup in Brazil next summer.

Sergio Aguero and Rodrigo Palacio will play alongside Messi, with Fernando Gago, Ángel Di María and Lucas Biglia also starting the game.

Ever Banega, Erik Lamela, Maxi Rodríguez and Ezequiel Lavezzi are amongst the subs.

Former Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz starts for Paraguay

Paraguay v Argentina

Paraguay team: Fernandez, Caceres, Da Silva, Ayala, Samudio, Riveros, Ortiz, Fabbro, Nunez, Santa Cruz, Silva
Subs: Gomez, Oscar Romero, Aquino, Sanabria, Angel Romero, Pedro Benitez, Rojas, Velazquez, Pittoni, Acosta

Argentina team: Romero, Zabaleta, Campagnaro, Basanta, Coloccini, Biglia, Gago, Di Maria, Aguero, Messi, Palacio
Subs: Orion, Dominguez, Fernandez, Lamela, Maxi Rodriguez, Ansaldi, Alvarez, Brana, Vergini, Ever, Lavezzi, Andujar

Referee: Enrique Osses (Chile)