Lionel Messi put on another dazzling display for the Argentina national team, delivering a trademark assist and scoring a late goal in a 2–0 friendly win over Angola in Luanda. The captain once again proved he remains the heartbeat of the reigning world champions.

In the 43rd minute, Messi drifted in from the right and slipped a perfectly weighted ball into the box, where Lautaro Martínez fired home with precision. The strike marked the Inter forward’s 36th goal for the national team. And just before full-time, the roles reversed: Martínez set up Messi, who guided a composed low effort inside the near post — the 115th international goal for Argentina’s iconic No. 10.

The night also marked an important moment for rising star Joaquín Panichelli. The top scorer in the French league made his senior debut, coming off the bench late in the match. Despite the vibrant atmosphere and symbolic occasion for Angola, the hosts struggled to match Argentina’s tempo and class.

🚨 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟: Lionel Messi has scored for the first time ever on the African continent, against Angola. 🇦🇷🇦🇴🌍 pic.twitter.com/EZKB43Uk9j

— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) November 14, 2025