Argentina to cancel Kerala visit scheduled for November? New report leaves fans aghast

KOCHI: Kerala was beaming with excitement over news of football virtuoso Lionel Messi and his squad's purported visit to the southern state for an exhibition match. However, the latest rumours surfacing could mar the high spirits and leave the lakhs of Messi fanatics in Kerala distraught.

As per news from Argentine sports broadcaster TyC Sports, the 2022 World Cup-winning squad, including Lionel Messi, could possibly change their November schedule.

“The scheduled tour of the Argentine National Team for November could undergo modifications: the first match will be against Angola in the African country, and the second, which was initially planned in India, could also be moved to Africa, with Morocco as a possible opponent,” TyC Sports reported.

Argentina Football Association (AFA) had earlier confirmed their friendly matches in Luanda (Angola) and Kerala for November. The Kerala tour plan saw the green light for the yeoman efforts from sponsors, and moreover, AFA was impressed by the football culture and the massive fan following for the Argentina team in Kerala. In 2022, AFA even tweeted in gratitude for the gigantic flex boards and hoardings put up in Kerala supporting the Argentina team for the World Cup in Qatar.

Just a few days back, the sponsors in Kerala confirmed the date of opening the ticket booking for the game. The sponsors also said that the new ticket rates will be announced soon. Amidst this development comes the report from TyC Sports, leaving the football fans in Kerala anxious. The wait will continue until the sponsors come up with clarification.

As part of the Indian tour, Messi will appear in Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi.