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Messi and Argentina Football Team to Join Angola's 50th Independence Anniversary
Argentina's visit marks Angola's 50th independence with a $13 million appearance fee; three players miss the match due to vaccine requirements amid ongoing protests.
- On Thursday, the Argentina national football team will arrive in Angola ahead of a friendly match on Friday with Lionel Messi.
- $13 million and Messi's involvement prompted criticism from activists as four civil society groups urged cancellation after 30 people died in fuel price protests, accusing Angolan authorities of systematic repression.
- Three players will miss the match due to yellow fever vaccine requirements, while Argentine manager Lionel Scaloni has confirmed Lionel Messi will start despite MLS playoffs and Inter Miami commitments.
- On Wednesday, November 12, Angola's anniversary events included a military parade in Luanda and soldiers raising a giant flag before President Joao Lourenco.
- On November 11, 1975, Angola declared independence, a legacy echoed in this week's match at the 11 November Stadium, named for that historic day.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources14
Leaning Left3Leaning Right1Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution60% Left
Bias Distribution
- 60% of the sources lean Left
60% Left
L 60%
C 20%
R 20%
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