Argentina will conclude their footballing year tonight when they face Angola in Luanda in a celebratory friendly arranged to mark the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence. The kick-off is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. Bangladesh time.
Interestingly, Argentina and Angola have met only once before—back in May 2006 in the Italian city of Salerno. Lionel Messi and Lionel Scaloni were both part of the squad on that occasion. Nineteen years later, the pair return to face the same opponents, but with roles dramatically changed: Messi remains the team’s talismanic player, while Scaloni is now Argentina’s World Cup-winning head coach.
That 2006 encounter was also a pre-World Cup friendly. Argentina won 2–0, with Maxi Rodríguez and Juan Pablo Sorín scoring the goals. In a remarkable coincidence, both Messi and Scaloni came on as substitutes together in the 63rd minute. Argentina’s current assistant coach, Roberto Ayala, started that match as well.
Speaking at yesterday’s press conference, Scaloni recalled the memories:
“I remember that match in Salerno very clearly. It was just before the World Cup, and I came on as a substitute. No matter who the opponents are, every match for the national team is important. Tomorrow will be another important opportunity for us.”
Argentina enter this fixture in good form, having beaten Venezuela 1–0 and Puerto Rico 6–0 in their last two friendlies. It is widely believed that this could be Argentina’s final match before the 2026 Finalissima in March.
Due to injuries, rest, and visa complications, several senior players are unavailable. However, young talents such as Joaquín Panichelli, Gianluca Prestiani, Máximo Perrone, and Kevin Mac Allister have earned call-ups, although a starting role for them seems unlikely.
Messi’s record against African teams is almost flawless: six wins and one draw in seven matches, with five goals across his club and national appearances. All eyes will once again be on the Argentine captain as he prepares for another unique reunion—19 years in the making.
