Messi Receives Hero’s Welcome in Angola Ahead of International Friendly
Luanda, angola – November 10, 2023 – Lionel Messi and the Argentinian national team arrived in Luanda yesterday to a reception typically reserved for heads of state, signaling a landmark moment for football in Angola and underscoring Messi’s enduring global appeal.The visit,culminating in a friendly match scheduled for 6:00 PM Lithuanian time today,has captivated the nation,drawing tens of thousands of fans and requiring a meaningful security presence.
The extraordinary fanfare surrounding the team’s arrival highlights Angola’s growing ambition to become a prominent host for international sporting events. While tickets for the 48,500-capacity November 11th Stadium were reportedly sold for as little as one US dollar-aiming for a full house-the overall cost of bringing Messi and the Argentinian squad to Luanda is estimated at $12 million USD. This investment reflects a strategic effort to boost tourism and elevate Angola’s profile on the world stage.
Upon landing, the Argentinian team’s bus was greeted by an estimated thousands of supporters lining the streets from the airport, despite maintaining continuous movement without stopping. A military escort accompanied the team’s transport, and soldiers provided security at the hotel de Convencoes de talatona, where the squad is staying.
Prior to their departure for Angola, the Argentinian team held an open training session in Elche, Spain, attracting approximately 25,000 spectators. The team then flew directly from Alicante Airport to Luanda, with the flight crew comprised entirely of Angolan citizens, according to journalist Rui Almeida. Initial plans for a same-day arrival were altered, resulting in the team arriving a day before the match.
Notably, three Atlético Madrid players – Julián Álvarez, Nahuel Molina, and Giuliano Simeone – were unable to join the team in Angola due to lacking the required yellow fever vaccination for entry into the country.
