The Angolan government is facing a storm of criticism after reportedly spending €12 million to host Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team in a friendly match, raising serious questions about public spending priorities in a country where many still struggle with poverty.

The friendly match between Angola and Argentina took place on November 14, as part of the celebrations marking Angola’s 50th anniversary of independence.

Angola reportedly paid US$ 12 million (circa €12 million) to secure Argentina’s attendance, with Messi’s participation being a key condition.

According to beIN Sports, after taxes, the net amount may be closer to US$ 7 million.

Tickets for the match were sold for just US$ 1, filling the 48,000-capacity Estádio 11 de Novembro.

On the pitch, Argentina won 2–0, with Lautaro Martínez scoring first and Messi adding a second late in the game.

Five Angolan NGOs including ALDA, Omunga, and Friends of Angola issued a public letter denouncing what they called “mismanagement of public resources.”

The NGOs argue the money could have been better spent on social programs, given that Angola faces widespread poverty and underdevelopment.

According to reports from DW, the origin of the funds remains unclear, with concerns about transparency.

Parliamentary opposition voices also weighed in: UNITA, a major political party, claims the real cost of the match could exceed US$ 20 million, factoring in player fees, logistics, and other costs.

Critics argue this spending reflects a “grave inversion of national priorities” amid pressing social needs.

The Angolan government and sports ministry have defended the decision, presenting the match as a symbolic gift to the people and a way to boost the country’s international image.

According to Minister Rui Falcão, the initiative was sparked by Argentina’s expressed interest in playing in Africa, though he declined to disclose detailed financial breakdowns.

Part of the match’s funding came from private sponsors; prominent businessman-politician Bento Kangamba claimed to contribute US$ 6 million toward the event.

– BeIN Sports, Reuters, AP News