Football fans in India are set for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as Lionel Messi, the iconic World Cup-winning captain of Argentina, is scheduled to return to India after 14 years.
This October, the Argentine national football team will play an exhibition match in Kerala as part of an exciting partnership with HSBC India.
The announcement comes as part of a one-year collaboration between the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and HSBC India, aimed at expanding the team’s global presence and promoting football across India and Singapore. This visit holds nostalgic significance, as Messi’s first trip to India was in September 2011, during which Argentina claimed victory over Venezuela at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
The Kerala Sports Minister had initially hinted at this landmark event last year, building immense anticipation. Argentine Football Association President Claudio Fabian Tapia shared his excitement, stating, “This new partnership symbolizes our team’s expanding journey, reaching fans in regions like India and Singapore.”
The exhibition match promises to be an unforgettable spectacle, further fueling enthusiasm as Argentina continues its preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Fans and stakeholders alike are looking forward to the camaraderie and global outreach this initiative will achieve.
