Lionel Messi to visit Kerala in 2025: State sports minister

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Nov 20, 2024, 11:00 IST

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Lionel Messi and the Argentinian national football team will play an international match in Kerala next year. The state government will organise the event, with funding from local businesses. This announcement comes after Argentina's 1-0 victory against Peru in a World Cup qualifier, solidifying their position as leaders in the CONMEBOL standings.

Lionel Messi to visit Kerala in 2025: State sports minister

Argentina players celebrate after scoring against Peru in the FIFA World Cup qualifying. (AP)

Kerala will soon welcome the Argentina national football team, including star player Lionel Messi, for an international match. Kerala's Sports Minister, V Abdurahiman, announced the exciting news at a press conference. The match is scheduled for next year.
The Kerala state government will oversee all aspects of the event. Funding for the match will come from local businesses, as confirmed by Minister Abdurahiman.
“All the financial assistance for organising this high-profile football event will be provided by the merchants of the state.”
The minister expressed confidence in Kerala's ability to successfully host this major sporting event.

Earlier in the day, Argentina national football team, who are the reigning World Cup champions, beat Peru 1-0 to inch closer to the 2026 edition in USA, Canada and Mexico.
A second-half strike from Lautaro Martinez was enough to seal the win for the Albiceleste in South American qualifiers, with the striker's goal moving him into a tie with Diego Maradona as the country's fifth all-time scorer.
Martinez scored his 32nd international goal 10 minutes after the break, capitalising on a fine cross from Messi to fire home a half-volley into the top-right corner.

The World Cup holders lead the CONMEBOL standings with 25 points, five clear of Uruguay. Peru are bottom of the 10-team table with seven points after 12 games.
The top six qualify automatically for the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
"We are Copa America champions, we are first in the qualifiers. We have to be proud," Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez said.

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