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Argentina's National Team to Visit Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: The renowned Argentina national football team, featuring the legendary Lionel Messi, is scheduled to visit Kerala for an international friendly match this November. Sports Minister V Abdurahiman announced this exciting news, referring to Messi's arrival as a special 'Onam gift' for fans throughout the state. The match is planned to take place between November 10 and 18, with final arrangements pending discussions with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Greenfield Stadium to Welcome the Champions

The Argentina Football Association has confirmed Messi's participation, indicating that the reigning FIFA World Cup champions will compete at Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. However, the identity of their opponent remains undecided. Sources close to the Argentine team reveal that multiple national teams have expressed interest, with Australia already showing eagerness to face Messi and his teammates.

A Historic Return to Indian Football

Minister Abdurahiman mentioned that Kerala had been anticipating the Argentine squad's visit, and the confirmation from the AFA was received just the night before. The state aims to offer fans a rare chance to witness Messi play on home soil. India has a rich football history with Messi; he first visited in September 2011, leading Argentina in a friendly match against Venezuela at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium, marking his debut as the national team captain. This upcoming match is expected to be another significant event for football enthusiasts in India.

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