Argentina vs. Peru: Must-See Stars Set to Shine in 2014 World Cup Qualifier

Something has to give on Tuesday when South American 2014 World Cup hopefuls Argentina and Peru square off in Lima in a CONMEBOL qualifying match.

Argentina currently leads in the table with 13 points through six matches. Meanwhile, Peru is seventh in the table with just six points in six matches. 

Before the action heats up on the pitch, we highlight a trio of must-see stars who are set to shine on South America's grandest football stage. 

Lionel Messi

There isn't a whole lot to say about Argentina's Lionel Messi that hasn't already been said countless times. 

The 25-year-old is arguably the greatest player on the planet, and boasts a unique skill set that will have Peru scrambling for answers on Tuesday.

Messi has netted 28 goals for his country in 72 appearances. He has scored a goal in each of the past three qualifying matches he has played in, and scored most recently in Argentina's 3-1 win over Paraguay on Friday.

He's practically a lock to score on Tuesday. 

Jefferson Farfan

The Peruvian striker scored twice in the second half of Peru's comeback win over Venezuela on Friday, and has 15 goals in under 50 appearances for the national team since 2003. 

Farfan is a very efficient player with the ball at his feet as well. He only needed two shots at the goal against Venezuela to put Peru ahead. 

His quickness is another advantage he brings to Peru's side. He was fouled three times in Friday's qualifier and will likely draw more against Argentina on Tuesday. 

Gonzalo Higuain

Although Messi will garner most of the attention leading up to Tuesday's match against Peru, Argentine forward Gonzalo Higuain is arguably the better international player.

Higuain has scored at a much higher rate for Argentina than Messi. The most obvious reason is because Higuain benefits from a lot of the focus the defense puts on stopping Messi.

In 27 caps, Higuain has scored 14 goals for Argentina, including the go-ahead goal in the 30th minute against Paraguay on Friday. The Real Madrid striker is an elite talent and will be one to watch on Tuesday. 

Follow Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Patrick Clarke on Twitter for more international football takes, reaction and analysis.