The wait is finally over for football fans in India. The Argentina Football Association (AFA) has officially confirmed that Lionel Messi’s Argentina will play a friendly match in Kerala in November 2025, marking a historic moment for Indian football enthusiasts. The Albiceleste, led by coach Lionel Scaloni, will feature in two international friendlies before the end of the year — one in the United States in October, and another in Angola and India during the FIFA window in November.
Table of Contents
Kerala’s Dream Comes True
This landmark announcement follows years of anticipation and negotiations. Kerala, known for its passionate football culture, played a crucial role in welcoming Argentina after their 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar. Fans in the southern state stood out for their massive displays of support, even drawing praise from the AFA in an official social media post thanking India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
The upcoming fixture at Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram will not only be a sporting spectacle but also a gesture of gratitude from the world champions to their Indian supporters. For many, the idea of witnessing Messi in Kerala is nothing short of a dream come true.
How Kerala Secured the Match
The journey to bring Argentina to Kerala began right after the 2022 World Cup. Kerala’s Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman sent an official invitation to AFA President Claudio Tapia, which received a positive response. In December 2024, a formal agreement was signed between the AFA and Reporter Broadcasting Company Private Limited, ensuring sponsorship and logistical support for the high-profile visit.
Although recent disagreements between AFA officials and the Kerala government caused uncertainty, Saturday’s confirmation has put all doubts to rest. Now, the excitement around Messi in Kerala is at its peak as fans prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime event.
The Messi Factor
While the AFA has confirmed Argentina’s participation, the big question remains — will Lionel Messi himself play in Kerala? At 38 years old, the Inter Miami star continues to balance club and international commitments. Fans are hopeful that Messi will lead Argentina onto the pitch in Thiruvananthapuram, making it a historic experience for Indian supporters.
Interestingly, Messi is also scheduled for a separate four-city tour of India in December 2025, covering Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. Even if the Kerala friendly doesn’t guarantee his presence on the field, the thought of Messi in Kerala has already created unparalleled excitement among fans.
Safe Betting Practices India 2025: A Guide for Responsible Punters
Why Argentina Chose Kerala
Argentina’s choice of Kerala is symbolic. The state has a long-standing football tradition, often compared to Latin America in terms of passion and fan following. Streets, homes, and even entire towns famously displayed Argentina flags during the Qatar World Cup, and Messi murals adorned walls across the state. The AFA acknowledged this support as a key reason behind selecting Kerala as a destination for their 2025 friendly.
The buzz around Messi in Kerala reflects how deeply the game is rooted in the state’s culture, making the event more than just a match — it’s a festival for fans.
Match Details
- Event: Argentina Friendly Match
- Venue: Greenfield Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- Date: November 2025 (exact fixture date to be announced)
- Organizer: Argentina Football Association (AFA) with support from Kerala Government & Reporter Broadcasting
Final Word
The confirmation of Lionel Messi’s Argentina playing in Kerala in November 2025 marks a historic milestone for Indian football. For fans in Kerala and across the country, this is more than a match — it’s a celebration of their passion being recognized on the global stage. Whether Messi takes the field or not, the arrival of the world champions will inspire a new generation of Indian football enthusiasts.
