Higuain omitted by Argentina again as Brazil recall Diego

The Juventus striker will miss do-or-die World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Ecuador, but Brazil have an experienced playmaker back in their ranks

Posted Saturday, September 16, 2017 by Goal.com

Juventus striker Gonzalo Higuain has again been overlooked by Argentina manager Jorge Sampaoli for next month's decisive final round of World Cup qualifiers.

Higuain was axed for the recent draws against Uruguay and Venezuela which left Argentina fifth, clinging to an intercontinental play-off place.

Despite the precarious position, Higuain's two goals in three Serie A appearances have not been enough to warrant a place in Sampaoli's initial 21-man squad of overseas-based players.

Angel Di Maria, currently sidelined by a thigh complaint, has been named for the matches against Peru and Ecuador, while Zenit midfielder Emiliano Rigoni and Fiorentina defender German Pezzella are the only uncapped selections.

Meanwhile, the news is better for a former Juve star with ex-Bianconeri playmaker Diego recalled for Brazil's dates with Bolivia and Chile.

Now at Flamengo, the 32-year-old ended an eight-year absence from the national team in an exhibition to raise money for Chapecoense in January before being left out of Tite's last squad.

But, with Brazil having already booked their place in Russia as group winners, Diego now has the chance to press his claims for a first World Cup call-up.