Argentina ready to play in Kerala, says Sports Minister

Thiruvananthapuram: Football world champions Argentina have expressed keenness to play in Kerala, State Sports Minister V Abdurahiman has said. 

"We will initiate follow-up actions once we receive an official communique from the Argentine authorities," Abdurahiman told Manorama News. 

"We are keeping the All India Football Federation (AIFF) updated on the developments. We believe raising funds for hosting Argentina will not be an issue. Argentina's World Cup triumph has sent their Malayali fans into a frenzy. Hosting Argentina is a long-cherished dream," he said.

Following Argentina's victory at Qatar 2022, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited the Argentine Ambassador in New Delhi after the embassy thanked the fans in Kerala for their support. Pinarayi had invited Argentina's national team to Kerala and expressed interest in collaborating with the country. 

"The AIFF is ready to support us to make arrangements to host Argentina. We have facilities to host the world champions," Abdurahiman added.