Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team are set to return to India in 2025 for an international friendly match in Kerala after a 14-year hiatus. Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman confirmed the event will be organized with support from state merchants. While the Argentina Football Association has not yet officially announced the event, discussions have taken place to facilitate the match, with details pending on their opponent.
Lionel Messi, along with the Argentina national football team, is poised to return to India after a 14-year absence. The 2022 FIFA World Cup champions are scheduled to play an international friendly match in Kerala in 2025, as confirmed by Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman. During a press conference, the Minister emphasized the state government’s commitment to organizing this significant football event, stating that all financial support will be sourced from local merchants. While the Argentina Football Association (AFA) has yet to make an official announcement, it is reported that the Kerala government has successfully negotiated to host the world champions. The specific opponent for Argentina in this match remains undetermined at present. An Economic Times report highlights that a delegation led by Minister Abdurahiman recently visited Spain to engage in high-level discussions with the AFA, which he described as both positive and productive. Following up on these discussions, a delegation from the AFA is expected to visit Kerala soon. Messi’s last appearance in India took place in 2011 when he played for the Argentina team against Venezuela at the renowned Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. In conclusion, this anticipated match in 2025 signifies a historic return of the Argentine team to India, generating excitement among football enthusiasts and highlighting Kerala’s emerging role as a host for international sporting events.
The return of Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team to India represents a significant event in the world of sports, particularly in the realm of football. As the 2022 FIFA World Cup champions, their presence is expected to attract large crowds and media attention, further promoting football culture in India. This event follows a long hiatus since Messi’s last visit in 2011 and is part of Kerala’s ongoing efforts to establish itself as a key player in hosting international sports events.
The forthcoming international friendly match in Kerala in 2025 heralds the momentous return of Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team to India after 14 years. With the full backing of the Kerala government and local merchants, this landmark event is anticipated to bolster football’s popularity in the region and showcases Kerala’s capability to host large-scale sporting occasions. As anticipation builds, further developments are expected to unfold from the AFA’s upcoming delegation visit.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
