FC Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi inspired 10-man Argentina to a 1-0 win over South American rivals Uruguay in their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Friday morning.

Messi, who retired from international duty two months ago but then went back on his decision to do so, returned to the national side to score his team's only goal in Mendoza.

The match was a tense affair and chances were few and far between in the opening stages, with Argentina dominating possession and trying to get Messi on the ball whenever they could.

The goal came in the 43rd minute, when the Blaugrana talisman struck a shot past Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, although there was a big deflection on its way in.

Just before the interval things, however, disaster struck for Argentina, as Juventus striker Paulo Dybala received his second yellow card for what was considered a "soft" foul on Mathias Corujo.

The second half began with Uruguay on the front foot and dictating matters, but it wasn't enough as they could not break down the Argentines' determined defence.

The win sends La Albiceleste above Uruguay and to the top of the CONMEBOL 2018 World Cup qualifying table after seven games.

Are you happy to see Messi back with the Argentina national team? Have your say in the comment section below.