Lionel Messi and Argentina to play in RUSSIA?! World Cup winners lined up for friendly in Moscow despite FIFA ban in hugely controversial move

Argentina are reportedly set to play a friendly match in Moscow - despite the Russian national team being banned by FIFA.

WHAT HAPPENED?

All Russian clubs and national teams were suspended from participating in FIFA and UEFA competitions following the invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. However, reports suggest the 2022 World Champions could face Russia in the November international break later this year.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The report adds that if the match does go ahead, it is unlikely that stars such as Inter Miami ace Lionel Messi will take part, as Western sponsors would be uncomfortable with their partners playing in Russia.

DID YOU KNOW?

It is said that this encounter would take place at some point between November 10 and 18 in 2025 and would be held at the 81,000-seater Luzhniki Stadium - the national ground of Russia - in Moscow.