Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi and midfielder Rodrigo De Paul have received a call-up to represent Argentina in an upcoming friendly match against Angola, scheduled for November 14. The announcement was made by Coach Lionel Scaloni, who unveiled a 24-player roster for this match while Inter Miami is engaged in the MLS playoffs.
As Inter Miami prepares to face Nashville FC in a critical playoff series, which will culminate in a decisive Game 3 on Saturday in Fort Lauderdale, the call-up of Messi and De Paul demonstrates their ongoing importance to the national team. Both players participated in friendlies in October against Venezuela and Puerto Rico, and Scaloni’s strategy of including them while excluding players from Argentina’s Primera Division, which is active during the November international window, highlights a measured approach.
Notably absent from the friendly roster is goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez, underscoring the depth of talent available to Argentina. Messi, a standout performer, has been a candidate for the MLS MVP title, having completed the season with an impressive 29 goals and 19 assists, nearly setting a record for goal contributions in the league.
This selection underscores Messi’s unwavering commitment to his national team, effectively balancing his international responsibilities with his club’s playoff objectives. Despite the complexities surrounding the MLS playoff schedule, the friendly against Angola offers a moment of hope for Argentine fans and the wider soccer community. Messi continues to showcase his leadership and extraordinary talent, ensuring that both his club and national team remain competitive and vibrant, which can only foster greater excitement for soccer in the U.S. and beyond.