Lautaro Martínez opens the score!

This is the starting XI of the world champions

The Argentina national team arrived in Luanda with a piece of news that immediately ignited local excitement: Lionel Messi will start this Friday against Angola. Head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed in his press conference that the captain will play, although he has not yet decided how many minutes he will stay on the pitch. The presence of the Inter Miami star caused instant commotion, with thousands of Angolan fans eager to watch the reigning world champion live.

Scaloni made it clear that Argentina is taking this match seriously. Though it appears on the calendar as a friendly, the coach stressed that the level of demand will be high: “It’s a tough opponent, playing at home and with their people. For us, the match has competitive value.” The game will be played as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence, adding symbolic weight and guaranteeing a packed stadium.

A Renewed Squad and Opportunities for New Faces

Argentina’s squad underwent several changes, but Scaloni used the situation to extend the pool of players under evaluation. The coach called up footballers he had been monitoring from a distance and who were not in the original list, with the idea of giving them minutes and assessing how they adapt to the national-team environment.
Among the newcomers are Joaquín Panichelli, a striker from Strasbourg, and Gianluca Prestianni, forward for Benfica, who recently shone for Argentina at the U20 World Cup held in Chile.

“The goal is for those we’ve seen the least to be able to play. These are young players who have a lot to contribute,” Scaloni explained, satisfied with the group’s response during the training sessions.

A Year-End Finish With Messi on the Pitch

This match against Angola will be Argentina’s final fixture of 2025, increasing the intrigue around how the world champions will close out the year. Scaloni also spoke about Franco Mastantuono, the Real Madrid player who joined the squad in Alicante despite not being available due to a pubis issue. “He wanted to be here and we appreciate that. We like that the young ones feel that sense of belonging,” the coach highlighted.

Argentina aims to end the year showing rhythm, expanding options and, above all, giving Africa a special night marked by Messi’s presence. In a setting full of symbolism, the Albiceleste step into a match that promises emotion, intensity and a celebration for the people of Angola.