Angola is pulling out all the stops and opening its wallet wide to bring Lionel Messi and the world champions Argentina to Luanda for a blockbuster international friendly next month.
The Palancas Negras are set to face the Albiceleste on November 14, a match that’s already sending shockwaves through African football circles, not for the tactics or team news, but for the eye-watering price tag attached.
According to Sport News Africa, the Angolan Football Federation has agreed to pay a staggering €12 million to secure Messi and his star-studded teammates, as part of the country’s Independence Day celebrations.
Argentina, who reportedly command over €10 million per friendly since lifting the 2022 World Cup, were initially in talks with Morocco, but that deal collapsed when the North African side pulled out of their financial demands.
Angola, however, wasted no time swooping in as they are determined to mark their national holiday with football’s biggest name.
Fans are already buzzing with excitement at the prospect of watching Messi grace the Estádio 11 de Novembro, but the jaw-dropping cost has sparked fierce debate.
Personally, what am asking is, can Angola really defend splashing such a fortune on one game? Or will Messi’s magic turn every cent into gold? Either way, when the world champions touch down in Luanda, the city will come to a stand still.
By: Pascal Amoah
