New Delhi: This was already an exciting week for cricket fans in the country with the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the IPL auctions, both taking place this week, Pinarayi Vijayan, the Chief Minister of Kerala, has made sure that the football fans of the country also have something to cheer about. The Indian sporting calendar is poised for a monumental moment as Argentina’s national football team prepares to visit Kerala for a series of friendly matches.
Known for their exquisite footballing legacy and fresh off their FIFA World Cup triumph in 2022, La Albiceleste’s arrival is set to electrify fans across the country. This isn’t merely a football match; it’s a celebration of the sport’s unifying spirit and Argentina’s globally revered football culture. Kerala, often called the football capital of India, is all set to host these historic matches at its iconic stadium.
Kerala is set to make history as FIFA World Cup Champions Argentina are expected to visit next year! This dream is becoming a reality thanks to the State Government’s efforts and the support of @AFASeleccionEN. Let’s gear up to welcome the champions and celebrate our love for… pic.twitter.com/gT1yBrjJ9b
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) November 20, 2024
Fans of the sport are no strangers to the passion the state has for football. The state erupts in a carnival-like atmosphere during every World Cup, with streets painted in Argentina’s blue and white and fan clubs in full swing. The announcement that the reigning world champions are coming to India cements Kerala’s status as a footballing hotspot and highlights the efforts of the state government to bring world-class sporting action to the local stage.
State sports minister V. Abdurahiman confirmed that discussions with the Argentina Football Association (AFA) are progressing rapidly. Representatives from the AFA will visit Kerala soon to finalise details, including the opponents for these friendlies and the match dates. While the rivals remain undecided, speculation hints at a clash with prominent Asian teams.
Will We Get to See Lionel Messi Play in India?
Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman on Wednesday revealed that the Argentina football team, including legendary player Lionel Messi, will visit the state next year for an international match. pic.twitter.com/w4bwq09itb
— The Siasat Daily (@TheSiasatDaily) November 20, 2024
There was only question on everyone’s mind after the news broke, will Lionel Messi be part of Argentina’s squad? The short answer is yes, and the excitement is palpable. Kerala’s sports minister, V. Abdurahiman, has all but confirmed that the Argentine great will grace the field when his side come to the country. If everything goes to plan, the matches are expected to be played in the month of October next year.
Speaking at a press conference regarding the visit, Abdurahiman assured the football fans of the state that Messi will be a part of the travelling squad but didn’t make a formal announcement as he felt it would be better if the AFA did so. Lionel Messi, often hailed as the greatest football player of all time, commands an unparalleled fan following in India, especially in Kerala. The state has always had a deep emotional connection with the Argentinian team, and Messi’s presence elevates this event into something truly extraordinary.
Kerala’s love affair with Argentina hit global headlines during the 2022 World Cup, with videos of euphoric celebrations flooding social media after Messi and his team lifted the trophy. Now, with Messi potentially stepping onto Kerala’s hallowed football turf, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment for Indian fans. Though a formal announcement from the AFA is pending, the state government has assured fans that the matches are on track.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi is expected to be a part of the travelling squad to the country in what would be his second appearance in India. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
