Lionel Messi-led Argentina accept invitation to play friendlies in Kerala

La Albiceleste are expected to play in Kerala on October 2025.

The Argentina football team has accepted an invitation to play two friendly matches in Kerala, India, in October 2025. The announcement came through a social media post by Kerala’s Minister of Sports, V. Abdurahiman. This development comes after a missed opportunity in the past, where financial constraints prevented India from hosting the Argentine team.

Missed Opportunity

The initial heartbreak for football enthusiasts in Kerala occurred when the All India Football Federation (AIFF) rejected the opportunity to host the Argentina national team due to significant financial strain. However, hope was reignited as the Kerala government, led by Minister V. Abdurahiman, stepped forward to extend an invitation to the football giants.

Successful Negotiations and Exciting Prospects

Minister V. Abdurahiman, expressing the sentiments of football lovers in Kerala, took to social media to share the joyous news. He highlighted the disappointment caused when India lost the opportunity to host Argentina initially, but commended the Kerala government’s relentless efforts led by the passionate support for Argentina during the 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup by Kerala fans played a crucial role in capturing the attention and affection of the Argentinian team.

Friendly Matches and Football Development Cooperation

Following extensive discussions with Argentinian officials in an online meeting, various possibilities for cooperation in football development were explored. Argentina expressed not only its willingness to engage in friendly matches but also its commitment to collaborate with Kerala’s GOAL training scheme, aiming to train 5000 children.

Minister Abdurahiman’s Optimism

The discussions involving Argentina National Team International Relations Head Pablo Diaz, State Sports Department Secretary Pranab Jyotinath, IASKFA State President Nawaz Meeran, and other representatives hint at the broader scope of collaboration. The Minister expressed optimism, highlighting the belief and recognition accompanying the arrival of the Argentina national team in Kerala, and the overwhelming enthusiasm displayed by the people since the news broke.

The friendly matches were initially planned for June 2024 but faced a delay due to the monsoon season. Argentina has now confirmed their willingness to play in October 2025. The organization of these matches poses a considerable challenge, as acknowledged by the Minister. Nevertheless, he emphasized the profound impact it would have on football enthusiasts in Kerala, serving as a remarkable gift and motivation for local sportsmen.

While the announcement of the friendly matches is met with joy and anticipation, the complete picture of the tournament, including more details and specifics, is yet to be revealed. Football fans in Kerala eagerly await further information, the anticipation is already building among football enthusiasts in Kerala.

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