Thiruvananthapuram: Football fever is mounting in Kerala as the Lionel Messi-led Argentina national team’s proposed visit gains major traction, with state officials and the Argentina Football Association (AFA) moving closer to finalizing a landmark friendly match in the state later this year.
Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman has confirmed that the South American champions are set to play a match in Kerala during the October–November FIFA international window. “The deal is in the final stages, and Messi will come,” he announced confidently. The state government has committed to treating the world champions as official state guests, ensuring full support in accommodation, security, and logistics.
The friendly, facilitated by the Reporter Broadcasting Company, was momentarily under threat due to a delay in fee payments. However, that issue has now been resolved, with the match fee officially remitted to the Argentina FA.
“We are finalizing discussions with local authorities, and we’re excited by the incredible passion for football we’ve seen in Kerala,” said Leandro Petersen, the AFA’s marketing director. “We are looking forward to playing in India before the next World Cup.”
Although the final venue and opponent are yet to be confirmed, two stadiums are under consideration: Kochi’s Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium and Thiruvananthapuram’s Greenfield International Stadium. Officials are working to finalize arrangements swiftly to announce dates and ticketing plans.
The news has sparked widespread excitement across the state, long known for its deep-rooted love of football. Local fans are eagerly anticipating what would be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness Lionel Messi and the reigning World Cup champions live on Indian soil.
With final details expected soon, Kerala is on the verge of scripting history as it prepares to host one of the biggest events in Indian football’s modern era.
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