Lionel Messi to Start Against Angola as Scaloni Unveils Argentina Line-Up for Luanda Showcase
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed on Thursday that Lionel Messi will start in Friday’s friendly against Angola, marking the world champions’ final match of 2025. The squad arrived in Luanda to a warm reception, with excitement centred firmly on the Albiceleste captain.
Speaking at a press conference shortly after landing, Scaloni said his starting XI was already set and that Messi would lead the team onto the pitch. “Messi will play. I don’t know for how long, but he will be in the starting line-up, for sure. People will be able to see him,” the coach said.
Scaloni Expects a Competitive Test in Luanda
Scaloni dismissed the idea of a relaxed exhibition, insisting Argentina will treat the fixture with full seriousness. “The match may be called a friendly, but we have to play it properly,” he said. “Angola are a strong side, at home, with their supporters behind them. That makes the game more demanding. We’ll try to impose our style and hope it becomes a good contest.”
The coach also acknowledged Argentina’s lengthy list of absentees, which forced changes to the call-up. “We replaced the missing players with others we had been following closely,” he said. “This window allowed us to evaluate them and confirm that they’re capable of contributing. The goal is to give minutes to players who’ve had less action.”
New Faces Set for Senior Debuts
For the Angola clash, Scaloni has included several uncapped talents. Among them are Joaquín Panichelli, the Strasbourg striker, and Gianluca Prestianni, the Benfica forward who impressed at the recent U20 World Cup in Chile. Both are expected to receive valuable playing time as Argentina close out the year.
Scaloni also addressed the presence of Real Madrid youngster Franco Mastantuono, who joined the team during its training camp in Alicante despite carrying a pubic bone issue. “He wasn’t on the initial list, and we were told about his physical problem,” Scaloni said. “But he wanted to be here. He’s with us very often, and we appreciate that. He was close by, so he came. We value the gesture.”
With Messi confirmed in the starting line-up and several emerging prospects set to make their mark, Friday’s match in Luanda promises a rare spectacle for local fans and a valuable test for Argentina’s evolving squad.