Italy captain, Buffon and Lionel Messi meeting the Pope earlier

Lionel Messi and the Argentina squad had an audience with fellow countryman, Pope Francis earlier in the buildup to the friendly with Italy on Wednesday night. Pope Francis reminded both squads of their “social responsibility” during the 15 minute meeting before the squads returned to their preparations. Messi, however, has returned to Barcelona to receive treatment on a muscle strain ahead of the opening fixture in La Liga. It would appear from training as though Erik Lamela will be given the opportunity to impress in the absence of captain Messi. Italy not without their own injury problems will be without Mario Balotelli. The game is tomorrow at 7:45 GMT or 3:45 in Buenos Aires.