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Scaloni Poised to Rest Dibu Martínez as Argentina Plans Rotated XI for Angola Friendly

The lone November date serves as a depth audition — preparations center on a Spain base plus mandatory vaccinations.

Overview

  • Argentina will play only one match in the November window, a friendly against Angola in Luanda on Friday, November 14, after a planned game in India was canceled.
  • Multiple outlets report Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez will be left out to rest while coaches assess alternatives in goal, with Walter Benítez the leading candidate to start and Gerónimo Rulli and Facundo Cambeses also in the frame.
  • The official squad has not yet been released, but reporting indicates Lionel Scaloni will rotate regulars to evaluate options ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
  • AFA arranged the Luanda fixture under lucrative terms reported at about USD 12 million, with press accounts noting a clause obliging Lionel Messi’s call-up and some minutes to secure ticket demand.
  • The delegation will gather in Spain (Alicante) before traveling, and entry to Angola requires yellow fever vaccination, which players have begun alongside other recommended inoculations.