India Gear Up To Host Lionel Messi, Argentina Star Set To Return After 14 Years

Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman has confirmed that Lionel Messi-led Argentina team will visit India next year. Argentina last visited India back in 2011 when they defeated Venezuela 1-0 in an exhibition match at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.The Kerala minister confirmed the development during a press conference as he said the Argentina team will play a match in Kerala next year. "All the financial assistance for organising this high-profile football event will be provided by the merchants of the state."The exact time and date of the exhibition match is yet to be revealed. Earlier today Argentina defeated Peru 1-0 in a FIFA World Cup Qualifier match with the only goal scored by Lautaro Martinez. Messi laid the assist which has now almost ensured Argentina's path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Argentina lead South American qualifying with 25 points from 12 matches, five points clear of its closest competitor, Uruguay. Ecuador and Colombia are next with 19 points each.Messi suffered a prolonged injury spell after the Copa America final and had to be sidelined for a few weeks. The Inter Miami star failed to lead his team into the MLS playoffs but they have qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup.Argentina defeated France in the FIFA World Cup final in 2022 as Messi finally ended his long dream of lifting the trophy with his country. It remains to be seen whether Messi will be available for the tournament as he will turn 38 at that time.