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The international stage lights up in Luanda tonight as Angola hosts Argentina in a highly anticipated friendly match on November 14, 2025, at the Estádio 22 de Junho. This clash pits the South American giants—defending World Cup champions and Copa América holders—against the resilient Palancas Negras of Angola, who are sharpening their edges for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With kickoff set for 7:00 PM local time (2:00 PM ET), fans worldwide are tuning in via beIN SPORTS for what promises to be a blend of tactical masterclass and African flair.
Pre-Match Buzz: Lineups and Tactics
Argentina arrives under Lionel Scaloni’s steady hand, boasting a star-studded squad despite some high-profile rotations. Lionel Messi, the talismanic forward, leads the attack after a stellar MLS season with Inter Miami, flanked by Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández in midfield. Key absences include the injured Ángel Di María and Emiliano Martínez, with Gerónimo Rulli stepping in goal. Scaloni’s preferred 4-3-3 formation emphasizes possession dominance and quick transitions, aiming to exploit Angola’s defensive vulnerabilities while testing fringe players ahead of June’s qualifiers against Colombia.
Angola, coached by Pedro Gonçalves, fields a gritty 4-2-3-1 setup, anchored by captain Fredy and prolific striker Gelson Dala. The hosts draw confidence from their recent 1-0 upset over Namibia in qualifiers, but face a stern test against Argentina’s depth. With home support roaring, expect a high-pressing game to disrupt the visitors’ rhythm early.
Historically, this marks the first competitive meeting between the nations, adding intrigue. Argentina seeks to build momentum post their 2024 Nations League triumphs, while Angola eyes a morale-boosting performance to climb African rankings.
Live Updates: As It Unfolds
- Kickoff (0′): The whistle blows under floodlights! Argentina in sky blue and white; Angola in red and black. A respectful minute’s silence for global football legends.
- 5′: Messi tests the waters with a curling free-kick—straight into the wall. Angola clears amid cheers.
- 12′: First chance! Álvarez latches onto a through-ball but skies his shot over. Angola’s defense holds firm.
- 22′: GOAL! Argentina 1-0. Fernández unleashes a rocket from 25 yards—unstoppable for the keeper. Clinical start for the visitors.
- 35′: Yellow card for Angola’s Bastos after a cynical foul on Messi. Tension rises.
- HT (45+2′): Halftime whistle. Argentina leads 1-0, dominating possession at 62%. Shots: 7-2 in their favor.
- 46′: Second half underway. Angola subs on Mabululu for fresh legs up top.
- 58′: GOAL! Angola 1-1. Dala rises highest from a corner, heading past Rulli. Luanda erupts—the underdogs strike back!
- 67′: Argentina responds: Messi dances through two defenders, but his low drive is parried wide.
- 75′: Double sub for Scaloni—Lautaro Martínez on for Álvarez; De Paul replaces Mac Allister to inject energy.
- 82′: Close! Angola’s counter ends with a thunderous strike from Zini—grazes the post.
- 90+3′: Final chance. Messi’s free-kick clips the bar. Referee ends it.
Post-Match: Final Score and Insights
Final Score: Angola 1-1 Argentina
A spirited draw sees Angola claim a historic point against the world No. 1. Key stats: Possession (Argentina 58%, Angola 42%); Shots (12-6); Corners (5-3). Standout performers include Dala (8.5/10) for his equalizer and Messi’s creative spark (1 assist, 7.2/10). Scaloni praised Angola’s “warrior spirit,” noting it as valuable prep, while Gonçalves hailed his side’s resilience: “This fuels our World Cup dreams.”
This result underscores Africa’s rising prowess, with implications for both teams’ qualification paths. Argentina tops CONMEBOL standings; Angola sits third in Group G. Relive highlights on beIN SPORTS—stay tuned for more global football action!
