With four matches remaining in the South American qualifiers, Lionel Messi and Argentina have already secured their place in the 2026 World Cup. The defending champions sit comfortably atop the CONMEBOL standings and are now shifting their focus to international friendlies in the months ahead.
According to Diario Ole, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) is exploring the possibility of playing a friendly in Africa in November. Discussions reportedly took place at the AFA headquarters, where president Claudio Tapia received Fernando Alves Simoes, president of the Angolan Football Federation. During the meeting, both leaders discussed plans to promote future sporting initiatives between their respective national teams.
The visit from Alves Simoes coincides with Angola’s preparations to mark the 50th anniversary of its independence on November 11. As reported by Ole, the proposed friendly between Argentina and Angola could take place on that date in Luanda as part of the country’s national celebrations. Although the plan is not yet finalized, both parties are said to be optimistic about making it happen.
Playing against the reigning world champions would require a significant financial commitment from Angola. The cost of hosting Argentina has sparked some internal debate, but Alves Simoes reportedly remains hopeful. “Everything suggests Messi will be in Angola,” he told Angolan outlet RNA, as quoted by Ole.
Argentina players celebrate win over Brazil in the Conmebol Qualifiers (Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Messi missed Argentina’s last international window as he recovered from a muscle strain. However, the Inter Miami captain has yet to decide on his future with the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, thoughhe recently admitted he is considering playing.
Argentina are negotiating friendly fixtures in Asia
In addition to the potential fixture in Angola, Argentina may also travel to Qatar in November. Journalist Gastón Edul reported that the AFA is considering scheduling a second match during that international window. While neither of the two matches has been officially confirmed, they remain under active negotiation.
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Before any matches in November, Argentina could also be heading to Asia. Edul noted that there is a concrete proposal on the table to play two friendlies in China during the October international window. The opponents have not yet been disclosed, but the plan appears to be moving forward.
If all goes as expected, the upcoming schedule for the Albiceleste would feature four friendlies: two in China in October, one in Angola on November 11, and another in Qatar later that month.
