Copyright news18
Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman announced on Monday that the Argentina football team, led by star player Lionel Messi, will play a match in the state in March next year. He made this statement at the Kerala government’s Sports Vision 2031 event. “Two days ago, we received a mail from the Argentina team confirming their visit in March. An official announcement will follow soon,” he said. Preparations for the team’s visit have been completed, he added. Abdurahiman mentioned that the government had initially planned to host the South American team at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi this month. “Despite our efforts to complete the stadium facilities in Kochi, due to some issues, the work was not finished on time. Without stadium approval, we couldn’t host the match,” he explained. The minister emphasised that changes in international match schedules are common and should not be seen as a victory or defeat for anyone. “Our attempt to bring such a major football event to Kerala is commendable in itself,” he said. As part of promoting the sports economy, the government has decided to host several international sports events in the state, he added. “Football and cricket are now significant parts of a large sports economy that provides employment to many. We should not hesitate to be part of it. We have decided to engage actively in this sector,” Abdurahiman stated. Previously, the Sports Department and the sponsor had announced that the Argentina team would play against a top international side in Kochi this month. However, the Argentina team later announced its international friendlies for November, with no match scheduled in Kochi. With PTI Inputs
