'Indian team wants to play in Kerala but...' - Igor Stimac speaks on India-Argentina friendly game

By Gourav Samal

Gourav has been associated with Khel Now since 2023, drafting news and articles for the Indian Football and Indian Olympics desks.

Published at :January 22, 2024 at 5:07 PM

Modified at :January 22, 2024 at 7:18 PM

(Courtesy : AFC Media)

Igor Stimac expressed his enthusiasm for the Argentina game to be held in Kerala.

The Argentina national team is scheduled to travel to Kerala to participate in two friendly matches in October 2025, as announced by the Kerala Sports Ministry.

This declaration comes after an online discussion involving officials from the Argentine Football Association, notably Pablo Diaz – Head of International Relations at Argentina FA, Pranabjyoti Nath – Kerala Sports Secretary and Navas Meeran – President of Kerala Football Association.

During the pre-match press conference of the Indian football team, prior to their AFC Asian Cup 2023 match against Syria, a query was raised regarding the potential benefits for Indian football in the event of the Argentina national football team visiting India for a series of matches.

Addressing the query, coach Igor Stimac said, “I would greatly appreciate it if the government of Kerala could consider investing in obtaining the necessary licensing for the football stadium to host FIFA World Cup qualifying games. This would allow us to come together and enjoy supporting our national team during official matches.”

He also articulated his enthusiasm for traveling to Kerala with the national team and competing there. However, this remains unattainable until they have a FIFA-licensed ground.

“We have lots of passion about coming to Kerala with the national team and playing official games but that’s not possible until we don’t have a licensed ground by FIFA,” Stimac added.

Initially scheduled for June 2024, the matches have been postponed to October 2025 due to the logistical challenges of hosting events during the monsoon season in Kerala.

Head to Head Record

As indicated by the data, India has participated in a lone match against the Argentina national football team on January 13, 1984, during the Nehru Cup. Regrettably, the Indian team encountered a 1-0 defeat in this match.

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Gourav Samal

Gourav has over six years of experience in journalism, where he has worked for various national and regional media houses. With a keen liking for Cricket and Football, he also knows a few other games.