Notifications
Settings
Clear Notifications
Notifications
Use the toggle to switch on notifications
  • Block for 8 hours
  • Block for 12 hours
  • Block for 24 hours
  • Don't block
For Quick Alerts
ALLOW NOTIFICATIONS  
For Daily Alerts

Probable Dates for Lionel Messi and Co.’s Arrival at India Revealed, Know Details

Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine footballer, is set to visit India later this year. Kerala's Sports Minister, V. Abdurahiman, announced that Messi will be in Kerala from October 25 to November 2, 2025. During this period, the Argentine national team is scheduled to play a friendly match in Kochi.

During an event in Kozhikode, V Abdurahiman said, "For seven days from October 25 to November 2, Messi will be in Kerala. Apart from the friendly match, he will be on a public dias for twenty minutes to see you all." However, there is some ambiguity regarding the proposed dates.

argentina-in-india-600-1736698154

FIFA's international match calendar for 2025 does not list an official window between October 25 and November 2. The recognized international breaks around that time are from October 6 to 14 and November 10 to 18. This discrepancy suggests that the exact dates of Messi's visit might be subject to change to align with FIFA's schedule.

Argentina's potential visit to India underscores the team's commitment to engaging with their global fanbase. The South American champions have a history of playing international friendlies in diverse locations, aiming to promote football and connect with supporters worldwide.

Their anticipated match in Kochi is expected to bolster football's popularity in India, particularly in Kerala, where the sport enjoys a passionate following. At 37, Messi continues to be a pivotal figure in international football. Following his triumphant World Cup campaign in 2022, he has maintained his form.

He contributed significantly to Argentina's successes in subsequent tournaments. His visit to India is poised to inspire a new generation of football enthusiasts and provide a unique opportunity for fans to witness his exceptional skills firsthand.

Preparations in Kerala

The Kerala Football Association (KFA) has expressed enthusiasm about hosting the Argentine team. Preparations are reportedly underway to ensure that the event is conducted smoothly, with a focus on providing top-notch facilities for the visiting team and an unforgettable experience for spectators.

The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, known for its vibrant atmosphere during Indian Super League matches, is likely to be the chosen venue for the friendly. Added to an influx of tourism, the event is anticipated to enhance Kerala's reputation as a viable destination for international sporting events.

Potentially this could pave the way for future high-profile matches in the region. All in all, while the confirmed arrival of Lionel Messi and the Argentine national team in Kerala has generated excitement, clarifications regarding the exact dates are awaited.

Story first published: Sunday, January 12, 2025, 21:41 [IST]
Other articles published on Jan 12, 2025
Gender
Select your Gender
  • Male
  • Female
  • Others
Age
Select your Age Range
  • Under 18
  • 18 to 25
  • 26 to 35
  • 36 to 45
  • 45 to 55
  • 55+