08.02.2011 10:55

Team mates and rivals go face to face

Edgar Fornós

Two members of the first team, Dani Alves and Eric Abidal, go head to head in the France v Brazil friendly on Wednesday, while there will also be a fascinating meeting between potential Liga top scorers Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as Portugal meet Ar

They are only friendlies, but France v Brazil and Portugal v Argentina are not just any old games. There is the fascination of seeing two FCB colleagues face off against each other, Alves and Abidal, and also a priceless meeting between the oft-compared Messi and Cristiano.

Defensive clash

Alves and Abidal are both heading for international duty on top form. The Brazilian has been on mighty form down the right for Barcelona, and Abidal seems to be getting better as each week goes by, whether as a centre or full back. And the venue for France v Brazil is a place that brings back such fond memories for any Barça fan, Saint Denis.

Top scorers

Messi and Ronaldo have scored 48 goals between them after 22 matches. The players leading the scoring for Barça and Real Madrid once again star on the same field of play. Argentina and Portugal will be meeting in the Swiss city of Geneva.