GUWAHATI: Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman announced on Wednesday that the Argentina football team, including global icon Lionel Messi, will visit the state next year for an international football match. The match will be organised under the direct supervision of the state government.
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Speaking at a press conference, the minister revealed that local merchants would provide financial support to host the historic event, expressing confidence in Kerala’s capability to execute such a high-profile sporting occasion.
The announcement comes as Argentina continues its impressive run in the South American World Cup qualifiers. The reigning world champions secured a 1-0 victory over Peru on Tuesday, thanks to a stunning volley by Lautaro Martinez at the iconic Bombonera stadium in Buenos Aires.
Lionel Messi set up the winning goal with a perfectly delivered cross from the left, which Martinez converted with a powerful left-footed volley past Peruvian goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.
This victory marks Argentina's eighth win in 12 games, keeping them atop the CONMEBOL standings with 25 points. Their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup appears to be a mere formality.
Meanwhile, Brazil was held to a 1-1 draw at home against Uruguay in Salvador. Uruguay took the lead in the 55th minute through Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde’s superb finish. However, Brazil responded seven minutes later when Gerson capitalized on a headed clearance to fire home a perfectly executed volley.
Gabriel Martinelli nearly secured a win for Brazil, but his well-placed volley was brilliantly saved by Sergio Rochet. The draw places Brazil fifth in the standings with 18 points, just behind fourth-placed Colombia, who suffered a surprising 1-0 home defeat to Ecuador.
Kerala’s football enthusiasts are now gearing up for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness Lionel Messi and the Argentina squad in action on their home soil.