Lionel Messi and Argentina are planning a series of friendly matches to end the year after securing a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.

With four matches remaining in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America, Lionel Messi and Argentina have already secured their place in the biggest football festival on the planet. The reigning world champions are currently firmly at the top of the qualifying group and are shifting their focus to international friendlies in the coming time.

According to Diario Ole , the Argentine Football Association (AFA) is planning to organize a friendly match in Africa in November. At the AFA headquarters, President Claudio Tapia received Mr. Fernando Alves Simoes, President of the Angolan Football Federation. The two sides discussed the possibility of cooperation in football activities between the two countries in the coming time.

Notably, Mr Simoes’ visit comes as Angola prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary of independence on November 11. According to Ole, a friendly match between Argentina and Angola is being proposed to be held in the capital Luanda on that occasion as part of the festivities. Although the plan is still in the discussion stage, both sides have expressed optimism and goodwill.

Of course, inviting Argentina to play would involve a huge expense, which has caused some internal controversy in Angola. However, President Simoes has remained positive, telling Angolan media: “All signs point to Messi coming to Angola.”

The 37-year-old superstar missed the latest international training session due to a muscle injury, but has yet to confirm whether he will continue playing for La Albiceleste until the 2026 World Cup. Messi recently said he was still considering it.

In addition to the potential match in Angola, Argentina could also play another friendly in Qatar in November. According to journalist Gaston Edul, the AFA is considering adding another match to the same training camp. Both matches have not been officially confirmed, but are being actively negotiated.

In addition, the reigning world champions are likely to tour Asia in October, with two friendlies scheduled to take place in China. Although the opponents have not been revealed, the competition plan here is progressing smoothly.

If all goes well, Lionel Scaloni’s side’s upcoming friendlies will include two games in China in October, one in Angola on November 11 and one in Qatar at the end of November.