Football fans in India are in for a treat as Lionel Messi and the FIFA World Cup-winning Argentina team are set to visit the country after a 14-year hiatus. Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman announced on Wednesday that the Kerala government will host an international match featuring Messi and his team next year.
The announcement marks the return of the Argentine superstar to Indian soil after his last visit in 2011 when Argentina faced Venezuela in a friendly at Kolkata’s iconic Salt Lake Stadium. Messi’s assist had set up Nicolás Otamendi’s match-winning goal, securing a 1-0 victory for Argentina. Reflecting on that visit, Messi had expressed his admiration for India, saying it left a lasting impression on him.
Football Legends Who Have Visited India
India has previously welcomed some of the biggest names in football history. Legends such as Diego Maradona, Pele, Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, and Oliver Kahn have graced Indian soil, showcasing the country’s growing love for the sport.
Emiliano Martínez, Argentina’s current goalkeeper and a hero of their 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph, could also return to India if the team fields a full-strength squad for the match.
Event Details Awaited
The Kerala government plans to reveal further details about the match, including the venue and opponent, in the coming months. The news has already sparked excitement among football fans, as Messi’s return to India is a monumental event in the country’s sports history.
This visit reinforces India’s emergence as a destination for global football events, fostering enthusiasm for the sport while offering fans the rare opportunity to witness a legend like Lionel Messi in action.
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