Kochi: Indian football fans will have to wait longer to see Lionel Messi in action, as the much-anticipated friendly match between Argentina and an invited opponent in Kochi has been postponed due to delays in obtaining FIFA approval and other logistical hurdles.
The high-profile game was originally scheduled for November 17, 2025, at Kochi’s Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, with global superstar Lionel Messi expected to lead the reigning world champions. The event was being organised by Reporter Broadcasting Company, which had earlier confirmed Argentina’s visit to India.
However, the company’s Managing Director Anto Augustine announced on Friday that the match will not be held in the November international window as planned. “Due to procedural delays in securing FIFA permission, the Argentina friendly in India stands postponed. A new date will be announced soon,” Augustine said in a statement.
Sources indicated that apart from FIFA clearance, organisers faced challenges in finalising financial and logistical arrangements. Reports suggested that the cost of hosting Messi and the Argentina squad, including appearance fees, could exceed ₹100 crore.
While the postponement is a setback for football lovers in India — especially those in Kerala who were gearing up for a historic event — organisers confirmed that efforts are on to reschedule the match during the next FIFA international window.
Interestingly, Messi is still expected to visit India later this year as part of his “GOAT Tour of India 2025”, covering major cities including Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and New Delhi. However, that event will be separate from the postponed Argentina fixture.
The Kerala government and local sports authorities had earlier begun preparations for crowd management, ticketing, and stadium upgrades ahead of the star’s visit. With the postponement, those plans will now be put on hold until a new schedule is confirmed.
Despite the delay, anticipation remains high. If successfully rescheduled, this will mark the first-ever official visit of the Argentina national football team to India — and possibly the first time Indian fans witness Messi playing on home soil.
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