Tag: Argentina

Lionel Messi shone once again as Argentina secured a 2-0 win over Angola in Luanda on Friday, marking his first goal on African soil. The friendly match was held to commemorate 50 years of Angolan independence and took place at the packed Estadio Nacional 11 de Novembro, where tickets were sold for just $1. Argentina’s performance was defined by the strong understanding between Messi and Lautaro Martínez. The breakthrough came just before halftime when Messi, positioned on the right, delivered a perfectly timed, defence-splitting pass to Martínez. The Inter forward converted confidently, scoring his 36th goal for Argentina and giving the visitors a 1–0 lead. Late in the game, the roles were reversed as Martínez assisted Messi. Seven minutes from time, Martínez slid a pass into Messi’s path inside the box, and the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner calmly finished low into the far corner for his 115th international goal. Both players were substituted shortly afterward, having already settled the match. The fixture, reportedly secured with a $12 million appearance fee, was Argentina’s only match of the international window, offering a low-pressure tune-up for Lionel Scaloni’s squad. For Angola, it was an important opportunity to test themselves ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, where they will face Egypt, South Africa, and Zimbabwe in a tough group. Despite the expected result — Argentina are ranked second in the world, 87 places above Angola — the game carried symbolic significance for the hosts. Argentina came into the match off a dominant 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, topping South America with 38 points from 18 games. Angola, meanwhile, continue their efforts to return to the global stage. Their only previous World Cup appearance was in 2006, and after winning just two matches in the 2026 qualifiers, they fell short. Nevertheless, the evening was a celebration of football, and Messi once again displayed the skill and composure that have made him one of the sport’s all-time greats.