Tevez: Argentina must win without Messi

Argentina striker Carlos Tevez has called on his international team-mates to put in a far better display against Paraguay, with talisman Lionel Messi once again unavailable.

The Barcelona star's absence, coupled with an injury to Sergio Aguero, was keenly felt in a disappointing display from the Albiceleste as they went down 2-0 to Ecuador on Thursday.

And the Boca Juniors idol affirmed that much more was needed from the squad on Tuesday in a crucial World Cup qualifier.

"Messi takes opponents away from you. They worry about him and you can play with greater freedom," Tevez told reporters at a press conference on Saturday.

"But on Thursday there was a lack of attitude. That is what we talked about. The team did not turn up at any time and that is what most worries us."

Tevez started on the bench in the Monumental, and with both Messi and Aguero absent could make a rare start in national colours against Paraguay.

"Messi is a big plus for us. He is the best player in the world. But we are a team and we must try to replace him," he added.

"We have to face up to this situation. We did not make a good start to the qualifiers, but we will have another chance on Tuesday."