Kochi: Football fans in Kerala have reason to rejoice as the Argentine football team, including Lionel Messi, is set to visit the state in 2025. Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman announced the visit while addressing the media on Wednesday.

The team will play two matches during their visit, with Kochi being considered as the primary venue. Asian teams such as Qatar and Japan are being evaluated as potential opponents, with a final decision expected later.

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The Minister revealed that preliminary discussions were held in Spain with the Argentinian Football Association (AFA). A delegation from AFA is expected to visit Kerala within the next one and a half months for further talks, after which a joint announcement regarding the matches will be made.

The minister also noted that Kerala’s business community has expressed readiness to sponsor the event. Organisations such as the Kerala Gold and Silver Merchants Association (KMCC) and the Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samith (KVVES) have already come forward to support the initiative. The government intends to ensure that the event is a people’s celebration, with all activities monitored closely by the state. The Minister extended his gratitude to the business community on behalf of the Kerala Sports Foundation.

The Minister added that the invitation to the Argentine team aligns with Kerala’s broader strategy to promote sports and enhance the state’s sports economy. Earlier this year, a sports summit organised by the state secured investments worth Rs 5,000 crore. This visit by the world champions will further solidify Kerala’s position as a hub for international sports events.

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