Messi & Argentina’s Kochi friendly postponed, FIFA nod still pending

Football fans in Kerala will have to wait longer to see Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team, as the planned friendly match in Kochi has been postponed. The event, initially scheduled for November 17 at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, will now take place during the next international window, officials said.

The match’s sponsor, Anto Augustine, confirmed the delay on his Facebook page, citing “the delay in receiving FIFA’s permission” as the primary reason. Discussions with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) led to the decision to reschedule the game.

Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman explained that the visit hinges entirely on FIFA’s approval. “Argentina has two matches planned in November one in Angola and one in Kerala. While the Angola match is confirmed, the second is pending FIFA clearance,” he said.

Abdurahiman added that all required documents were submitted to FIFA last Friday. “The match could still happen in the current window if FIFA approval comes immediately. Otherwise, it will be held in the next international window,” he noted.

The minister also confirmed that stadium preparations in Kochi are complete. “Fire and safety audits are done, inspections are over, and the only pending step is FIFA’s nod. The current halogen lighting is being upgraded as well,” he said. He clarified that Thiruvananthapuram stadium was rejected due to rough field conditions, while Kochi’s venue is ready, with only minor issues delaying FIFA approval.

Regarding Messi, Abdurahiman said the star could have visited Kerala alone, but the government preferred hosting the full Argentina team to benefit the local sports ecosystem. “A solo Messi roadshow would not serve the sports sector as effectively,” he added.

The minister also highlighted that some concerns raised by local residents and emails to FIFA caused minor delays, even though AFA representatives were satisfied with the stadium facilities.

The Argentina team was expected to face a top international side in the friendly, which had generated immense excitement among fans in Kerala. Organizers have promised that a new date will be announced soon once FIFA approval is secured.