Juan chases international dream

For Juan Foyth, the chance to represent Argentina against Brazil is something of a childhood dream.

The defender has early memories of the match regarded as one of the biggest international rivalries in football.

Juan’s dream could become reality when the South American giants meet in a friendly in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday night (7pm UK).

He is part of Argentina's squad having received his first senior call for the friendlies against Iraq and Brazil. He was an unused substitute in the 4-0 win against Iraq on Thursday night.

Still only 20, Juan already has a taste of the revered derby when he lined up against Brazil’s Under-20 side in the Under-20 South American Championship last year - now he wants to experience the real thing.

"Argentina versus Brazil is a classic rivalry," said the 20-year-old.

"I remember watching this game when I was young, watching Juan Roman Riquelme play and score in South American qualifying (for the 2006 World Cup). This is the first memory I have of watching us play Brazil.

"They have really good players but we will be representing Argentina and we’ll try to do our best."

Juan spoke about his family's pride as he dreams of pulling on the famous light blue and white shirt for the first time at senior level.

"My family were really happy when I received this call up,” he added. “A lot of them called me and sent messages. I’m very excited for all my family too because they have always supported me."

A skilful, ball-playing centre-half, Juan joined us from Estudiantes in August 2017 and has made eight appearances in all competitions, including his Champions League debut last season.