Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team are officially coming to India this year. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed that the team will play a friendly match in Kerala between November 10 and 18, 2025.
This is big news for Indian football fans. It will be only the second time in nearly 15 years that Messi will play on Indian soil.
Kerala to Host the Match
The Kerala government had been in talks for months to bring the Argentina team to the state. Earlier, there was no confirmation of dates or venues. Now, with the AFA’s official announcement, Kerala is set to witness one of the most exciting football events in its history.
The opponent for Argentina’s Kerala match has not been revealed yet.
Messi last played in India in 2011, when Argentina faced Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. More than 70,000 spectators attended that game to observe Messi’s skillful display and assist on a goal for Nicolas Otamendi.
The memory of that night remains fresh for Indian football lovers. Now, more than a decade later, Messi is set to return.
AFA’s Official Statement
In a statement, the AFA confirmed Argentina’s schedule. In October 2025, the team will play in the United States.
In November 2025, they will play two friendlies — one in Luanda, Angola, and another in Kerala, India.
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“The Argentine national team, led by Lionel Scaloni, will have two FIFA friendlies in the remainder of 2025… the second, a FIFA friendly in November, from the 10th to the 18th, will be played in Luanda, Angola, and Kerala, India (opponents to be determined),” the AFA said.
Messi’s Expected India Tour
Reports suggest Messi will not only play in Kerala but may also travel across India. Stops could include Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, with a possible meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Messi continues to shine in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami. He recently became the club’s top scorer and top assist provider. This achievement made him the first player in football history to hold scoring and assisting records at three different clubs.
Fans in India are excited to see Messi in action again, as he brings his magic to Indian stadiums.
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