Argentina football team's visit to Kerala likely to proceed as planned; Minister and sponsor express confidence

ALAPPUZHA: Bringing relief to football fans statewide, Minister V. Abdurahiman has announced that the highly anticipated matches involving Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team are expected to take place as planned. The event’s sponsor is actively working to complete the required payments, easing earlier concerns that financial hurdles might jeopardize the event. Argentina is scheduled to play two matches in Kerala this October.

Speaking to the media, the minister said further clarity regarding the Argentine team’s visit to Kerala is expected in the coming week. So far, the Argentine team has not officially communicated any decision to cancel their participation. Approval from the Reserve Bank of India has already been secured for the Rs 175 crore transaction required to bring the team to India. The sponsor has assured the government that payment will be made within the next few days and that the matches will proceed as per schedule.

The games, which are non-FIFA friendlies, are expected to take place either at Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram or Kaloor Stadium in Kochi — both venues that meet international standards. As per match requirements, Argentina will face a lower-ranked opponent, likely from Asia, the minister said.

Organisers reaffirm Messi’s arrival

Meanwhile, Anto Augustine, Managing Director of Reporter Broadcasting Company — the official event organiser — reaffirmed at a press conference that Messi and the Argentine squad are expected to arrive. He clarified that the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has not issued any notice of withdrawal. Argentina is not scheduled to play in any other country on the dates reserved for Kerala.

According to Augustine, only the AFA has the authority to confirm Messi’s participation. Once all contractual conditions are met, a formal payment date will be scheduled. Necessary approvals from the RBI, and the Ministries of Finance and External Affairs, have been obtained. The organisers are currently awaiting the green light to proceed with the transfer. However, Augustine also noted that if the team eventually decides not to travel to India, there would be little recourse.