Play has halted in the top leagues, which means only one thing: the international break is back! While international friendlies tend to get a mixed reception from fans, the current break promises to entertain with interesting fixtures.
In the month of September, the bulk of the games will be played between the 5th and 11th, with many of the world's top sides taking to the field. Here are the 10 standout friendlies and the top talking points in the current break.
World Cup 2022 rehearsals continue for key names that missed out on Russia 2018
The 2018 World Cup was a thrilling tournament for many, but also a heart-breaking one for some, as many top nations failed to qualify. Football lovers watched the tournament in Russia and saw no Italy, no Netherlands, an unusual occurrence.
But they were not the only ones. USA was left in utter humiliation after they missed out on a ticket after losing to Trinidad and Tobago while Wales and their golden generation missed out on the playoffs to Ireland. The upcoming friendlies mark the rebuilding process for those nations.
Netherlands is one side looking to make amends, as they will welcome Peru and see how they'll fare without Arjen Robben, with Wesley Sneijder playing his final game for his national team. USA is in for tough tests, as they will first lock horns with Brazil before facing CONCACAF rival Mexico.
Lionel Messi and other star players excluded from the September 2018 international break friendlies
While a number of top sides will be in action, the same cannot be said for all of their star names. It comes as little surprise to see Lionel Messi left out of the September squad after claims he has temporarily excused himself from the national side.
But he's not the only one. Gabriel Jesus and Marcelo have been left out by Tite while Raheem Sterling, having initially been called up, will miss this break due to a back problem. Furthermore, USMNT will be without Christian Pulisic for the Brazil and Mexico clashes due to injury.
Presenting the Top 10 friendlies to watch
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Argentina 3 - 0 Guatemala
September 7, 2018 11:00pmLos Angeles Memorial Coliseum (Los Angeles, California)This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
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