Messi Scores as Argentina Defeat Angola 2–0 in Luanda Friendly

Lionel Messi found the back of the net as Argentina defeated Angola 2–0 in an international friendly played on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Estádio 11 de Novembro in Luanda.  

Argentina, the reigning FIFA World Cup champions, concluded their 2025 calendar with a convincing 2–0 win over Angola in Luanda. The match was part of Angola’s 50th independence anniversary celebrations, making Argentina the special guests for the occasion.  

Lautaro Martínez opened the scoring in the 43rd minute, capitalizing on Argentina’s growing dominance after a tense and physical start. With eight minutes remaining, Lionel Messi sealed the result, calmly slotting home after a clever assist from Martínez. The goal marked Messi’s 115th strike for Argentina, further extending his record as the nation’s all-time leading scorer.  

This fixture was Argentina’s final match of 2025, as their planned friendly in India was canceled. Several regulars were absent due to injuries or administrative issues, including Enzo Fernández, Julián Álvarez, and Nahuel Molina. Despite this, Messi’s presence ensured global attention on the game. The encounter also carried symbolic weight, as Messi had previously faced Angola in a 2006 friendly, though that match was played in Italy.