Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Scaloni to Rest Dibu Martínez as Argentina Set Angola Friendly for Nov. 14

Reports indicate the match will serve to evaluate goalkeeper options before the 2026 World Cup.

Overview

  • Argentina will play a single friendly against Angola in Luanda on Friday, Nov. 14, which will be the national team’s final match of 2025.
  • Lionel Scaloni is expected to rotate his squad, with multiple outlets reporting Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez will not be called to allow backups to gain minutes.
  • Walter Benítez is reported as the leading candidate to start in goal, with Gerónimo Rulli and Facundo Cambeses also in contention.
  • Coverage reports the deal includes a $12 million payment from Angola and a clause guaranteeing Lionel Messi’s call-up and minutes to help sell out the 48,000-seat venue.
  • The team is expected to gather in Spain before traveling to Luanda, and a previously planned second friendly in Kerala, India was canceled; the next scheduled date is the Finalissima against Spain in March 2026, pending Spain’s availability.