A planned international friendly match between Angola and Argentina, set for 14 November, has sparked mixed reactions across the country. The high-profile match, featuring global football star Lionel Messi, is part of Angola’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. Reports indicate that Angola will pay €12 million (N$238.3Millions) for Argentina’s participation.
While some citizens and sports enthusiasts see the event as a way to promote sports tourism and raise Angola’s profile on the global stage, others have voiced strong opposition. Critics argue that the funds could be better spent addressing poverty, hunger, and local sports development.
Community activists have since called for a boycott of the match, insisting that the government should prioritize investments in domestic football infrastructure and social welfare programs rather than hosting an expensive exhibition game.
