Messi Breaks New Ground in Africa: Nets First Goal on the Continent

Lionel Messi achieved a significant milestone by scoring his first goal on African soil during a 2-0 victory for Argentina over Angola in Luanda. The friendly match took place at the Estádio 11 de Novembro, coinciding with Angola’s 50th anniversary of independence.

Argentina began the game with strong control, and in the 44th minute, Messi set up Lautaro Martínez, who scored the opening goal by slotting the ball past Angolan goalkeeper Hugo Marques. Later, in the 82nd minute, it was Martínez’s turn to assist Messi, who finished with a precise left-footed shot, ensuring a solid win for Argentina.

This match marked an important personal achievement for Messi, as it represented his first goal on the continent, bringing his overall goal tally to 896. Additionally, he further solidified his status as Argentina’s all-time top scorer, now totaling 115 goals for the national team.

The occasion was also commemorative for Angola, as the nation celebrated five decades of independence. Angolan President João Lourenço recognized Messi’s influence by presenting him with an honorary trophy, and Messi reciprocated with a gift of his jersey, highlighting the bond between the two countries.

The match attracted over 50,000 fans, celebrating not just a historical moment but also the spirit of sportsmanship and unity. Messi’s performance underlined his remarkable skills and ongoing impact on football, while the event showcased the unifying essence of the sport across different regions of the world.