Angola 0:2 Argentina: Messi Stars With Goal and Assist As World Champions Win in Luanda
- Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass in Luanda as Argentina secured a 2–0 victory over Angola in Friday’s international friendly
- The world champions, backed by an electric crowd, dominated large spells of the match despite occasional nervy moments from the spirited Southern African side
- Fans have since taken to social media to applaud the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner for yet another standout display
- A CAF-accredited sports journalist delivered a compelling socio-political analysis seamlessly blended with football insights on the historic Angola vs. Argentina match
Argentina wrapped up their year with a composed 2-0 triumph over Angola at the Estadio 11 de Novembro, bringing their 2025 fixtures to a calm and convincing end.
The match, believed to have cost Angola $10 million, was held on November 14, offered a blend of intensity, flair, and moments that reminded the crowd why Lionel Messi still commands global admiration.
Source: Getty Images
Messi inspires Argentina to victory against Angola
The first half unfolded with plenty of drama. Messi created two clear chances for himself but could not convert either effort, while Zito Luvumbo tested Geronimo Rulli with a fierce strike.
Yet the breakthrough eventually arrived. With halftime approaching, Messi slipped a clever pass through the Angolan defence, allowing Lautaro Martinez to steer the ball between Hugo Marques’ legs for the opener.
Watch Messi's involvement in Argentina's opener:
The hosts emerged stronger after the restart. Angola’s supporters roared the team on during their Independence Day celebrations, but the final touch kept betraying them.
The home side were made to pay for their inefficiency in front of goal as Argentina punished their wastefulness late in the contest.
Martinez returned the favour with a first-time pass that released Messi inside the area.
The captain steadied himself and drove a clinical finish into the bottom right corner to double the advantage.
Watch Messi's goal against Angola:
Every touch from the 38-year-old drew applause, a reminder of his timeless influence in any stadium he enters.
Messi edges closer to historic record, fans react
The win capped another strong year for the reigning champions, who suffered only one defeat across eight matches in 2025.
Messi was central once again. According to Fotmob, he completed the most final third passes with 25, won four duels, and succeeded in two dribbles.
His career totals now stand at 895 goals and 401 assists, placing him only four contributions away from thirteen hundred.
Reactions on social media captured the mood of awe and amusement as fans celebrated yet another vintage display.
@legendbabs wrote:
"1300 contributions… and people still debate this man? We’re witnessing the greatest football story ever written."
@iamodrak added:
"Man came to Africa and still dropped a masterclass performance."
@DefiGoodest joined the familiar rivalry:
"900 goals soon, and we’ll take the only record Ronaldo has."
@YaseerikoAdam threw in a playful jab:
"While someone was busy doing WWE and collecting red card yesterday." And @WhiteTeeTurnip kept it simple: "GOAT."
Source: Getty Images
Angola’s historic Messi match divides opinions
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Daily Guide Network and Focus FM sports journalist Fitman Jaara offered a thoughtful socio-political and sporting analysis of the match between Angola and Lionel Messi’s Argentina. In an exclusive interview with YEN.com.gh, he shared:
“First and foremost, we must commend the Angolan government for achieving the remarkable feat of bringing the reigning world champions, and arguably the greatest footballer of all time, Lionel Messi, back to Africa for the first time since 2018.
“Although the announcement of the fixture sparked some unrest, particularly due to financial concerns, it’s important to recognise that the people of Angola will cherish November 14, 2025, for the rest of their lives.
"This day will be etched in history, despite critics labelling it as mere sportswashing by President João Lourenço, an attempt to divert attention from the country’s soaring cost of living.
“From a purely sporting perspective, I believe this was a masterstroke. Those viewing it through a political lens, however, may see it differently.”
Argentina receive unforgettable reception in Angola
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Lionel Messi and his Argentina teammates arrived in Luanda to an unforgettable reception.
Supporters across the Southern African nation flooded the streets in celebration, hoping to catch a glimpse of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and his squad.
Source: YEN.com.gh
