Lionel Messi and Argentina to Play Historic Match in Kerala: AFA Officially Confirms

Football legend Lionel Messi and the reigning world champions Argentina will be arriving in Kerala between November 10 and 18, 2025, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed.

The much-anticipated visit will feature an exhibition match at Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, jointly organized by the Kerala government and Reporter Broadcasting Company Private Limited. The confirmation marks a landmark moment for Indian football and Kerala’s passionate fan base.

Doubts Finally Put to Rest

The AFA’s official statement ends months of uncertainty and speculation surrounding the visit. Rumors had circulated as early as May 2025 suggesting that Argentina might skip Kerala due to FIFA’s packed international calendar. Dismissing such claims, Anto Augustine, Managing Director and Editor of Reporter TV, clarified: “The AFA has never spoken of cancellation. Preparations are well underway, and we urge people not to be misled by false narratives.” This assurance has reignited enthusiasm among fans who have been eagerly awaiting Messi’s arrival since Argentina’s triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

A Visit Born from Gratitude

Argentina’s decision to travel to Kerala is deeply tied to the overwhelming support their players received from the state’s football-crazy fans during the Qatar World Cup. On September 24, 2024, Kerala’s Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman revealed that the team had accepted the state’s invitation as a gesture of thanks.

Posting on Facebook, he wrote: “The Argentine team was moved by the extraordinary love from Kerala. This visit is their way of connecting with fans who stood by them.” While initial debates centered on the high costs of hosting the world champions, Kerala pressed ahead. Online discussions with the AFA soon opened doors for a broader partnership, with Argentina expressing readiness to collaborate on football development initiatives in the state.

Funding, Sponsorship, and Partnerships

Organizing such a high-profile event required significant resources, prompting the state to turn to the corporate sector for support. Rising to the challenge, Reporter Broadcasting Company Private Limited signed an agreement with the AFA on December 20, 2024, to handle logistics and sponsorship.

The broadcaster is also working on securing a strong international opponent for Argentina’s exhibition clash, promising fans a contest worthy of the occasion. “Bringing the Argentine team here is no small task,” Augustine remarked. “We are fully committed to making it happen and are in advanced talks to finalize a top-class rival for the game.”

Match Timelines and Significance

Argentina’s Kerala tour will follow their World Cup qualifying fixtures against Venezuela (September 5, 2025) and Ecuador (September 10, 2025). The Greenfield Stadium game will double as a preparation match for the 2026 World Cup, further boosting its importance. But the impact goes beyond one evening of football.

The AFA’s openness to supporting Kerala’s sporting ecosystem could translate into grassroots programs, training exchanges, and talent-scouting opportunities, creating long-term benefits for aspiring players in the state.

Kerala Prepares for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Event

With official confirmation now in hand, excitement across Kerala has reached fever pitch. For the state’s devoted football followers, the chance to see Messi and his team live is nothing short of a dream come true.

The Kerala government, alongside Reporter Broadcasting Company, has assured fans that arrangements are being meticulously handled to deliver a world-class experience. What awaits in November is more than just a football match—it is a celebration of passion, culture, and the enduring bond between Kerala and the beautiful game.