Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are looking forward their play for their countries for the first time since the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Messi will be playing for Argentina against Venezuela for a friendly match in Madrid. Ronaldo is due to play for Portugal’s opening Euro 2020 qualifier at home against the Ukraine in Lisbon.

Both of the players had missed six international matches since the World Cup. Ronaldo scored 85 goals in 154 international games and could also play in Portugal’s game in Serbia on 25 March. Portugal reached this summer’s Nations League semi-finals without Ronaldo.

Portugal defender Joao Cancelo said,”Cristiano adds quality to any team. It’s a pleasure to play with him and he’s very important for us”.

Lionel Messi scored 65 goals in 128 international appearances. While he is set to play at Atletico Madrid’s Wanda Metropolitano stadium, Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero, Chelsea’s Gonzalo Higuain and Inter Milan’s Mauro Icardi are not in the squad.

Lionel Scaloni said on Messi’s return, “It’s a joy for me and for everyone that he’s back – we’re all very happy”.

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