Kerala to Host Lionel Messi and Argentina National Team for Historic Friendly in November
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: In a landmark moment for Indian football fans, Kerala is set to host one of the biggest sporting events in its history. Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman has officially confirmed that Lionel Messi and the FIFA World Cup-winning Argentina national team will play a friendly match in the state this November during the FIFA International Window.
Speaking on the announcement, Abdurahiman shared on his official Facebook page, “Messi will come. We have received official confirmation via email that the Qatar World Cup-winning Argentina team, including Lionel Messi, will visit Kerala for a friendly match in the November 2025 FIFA International Window.”
This will mark Messi’s second visit to India; his first came in September 2011, when he played against Venezuela in Kolkata, with Argentina winning 1-0 at the Salt Lake Stadium.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had earlier revealed the team’s visit, noting that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is also expected to be part of the squad. “Kerala is a land where football is embraced with love and passion, transcending national and cultural boundaries. Hosting the reigning world champions, Argentina, next year reflects our deep connection with the sport. Messi, one of the greatest footballers of all time, is expected to join the team,” Vijayan stated.
He praised Kerala’s passion for football and highlighted that the state government’s persistent efforts, along with the support of the local business community willing to cover the financial costs, made this “extraordinary gift” possible. The Argentinian Football Association, which has been supportive from the start, is expected to make an official announcement during their visit to Kerala in the coming months.
Vijayan added, “This will be a moment when Kerala’s name resonates loudly on the global sports map. The visit of the Argentina team will invigorate Kerala’s sports culture and the entire sports sector. Let us unite in excitement to welcome Messi and his team with warmth and pride.”
In 2023, Messi won the prestigious Ballon d’Or for the eighth time, cementing his status as one of football’s all-time greats. Representing Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Messi became the first MLS player to claim the award, having previously won it in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.
From his humble beginnings in Santa Fe to his debut in 2004, Messi’s career has been nothing short of a fairytale—one that continues to inspire millions around the world.
