Messi to India: Argentina's Football Team Poised for Exhibition Matches

The heartbeat of Kerala’s football fandom could soon echo louder as Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team may grace the state in 2025 for two exhibition matches against an Asian opponent. Kerala’s Sports Minister, V. Abdurahiman, revealed this thrilling development after a successful meeting with Argentina Football Association (AFA) delegates in Madrid.

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Messi Mania to Hit Kerala

Speaking in Thiruvananthapuram, the minister said, “We had excellent discussions on hosting an exhibition match in the state. As a follow-up, an AFA delegation will visit the state within two months. All the financial assistance for organising this high-profile football event will be provided by the merchants of the state.”

With an estimated budget of ₹35 crore, the event promises to be monumental. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi is tipped as the most likely venue, with final dates to be determined after the AFA delegation’s visit.

Boby Chemmanur, a Kerala-based businessman and long-time collaborator with football legend Diego Maradona, described the possibility as a “dream come true” for Kerala’s football-obsessed fans. “When Maradona came, nearly a lakh turned up. If Messi arrives, it will be even bigger. His popularity here is unparalleled,” Chemmanur said.

Kerala’s Unmatched Devotion to Messi

Kerala’s love for Messi and the Argentina team runs deep. From 30-foot cutouts towering over rivers in Kozhikode to flags and flexes decorating neighbourhoods during World Cup and Copa América seasons, the Messi craze is palpable.

During the 2022 World Cup, thousands from Kerala flew to Qatar to witness Messi’s historic triumph. Many more volunteered at the event, hoping to see their idol up close. The streets buzzed with debates about the eternal “Messi vs Ronaldo” rivalry, sometimes escalating into fiery arguments.

A Boost to Kerala's Sporting Image

If Messi steps onto Kerala’s soil, it will not only be a spectacle for the fans but also a significant uplift for the state’s global sporting profile.

“This event could position Kerala as a hub for international sports events,” said Minister Abdurahiman. “Messi’s arrival will create history.”

For now, all eyes are on the AFA delegation’s visit and the subsequent announcement of dates. Kerala’s football frenzy is gearing up to welcome the man whose face has adorned countless billboards and won a million hearts.

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