Messi Coming to India!
Fans are thrilled as Lionel Messi’s India tour gets an early festive treat. Anto Augustine, Managing Director of the Reporting Broadcasting Company, confirmed that Messi and the Argentina team will visit India on 17th November 2025 for a friendly match in Kerala.
Date and Schedule
Argentina will play a FIFA friendly against Australia on 17th November 2025 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi.
In an interview with The Hindu, Anto Augustine said, “We could confirm it only after a few days, but efforts are on to bring a strong Australian team. We’re finalising TV rights, and a leading Indian sports channel will broadcast the match. Our roadshow starts on October 17 from Kozhikode, covering all 14 Kerala districts. A music show by A.R. Rahman is also planned.”
The Argentina team will reach Kochi on 15th November, while Australia arrives on 10th November with government delegates.
Hector Daniel Cabrera, stadium inspection manager of the Argentina Football Association, visited Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi, on 23rd September, the same day Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman’s office also confirmed the fixture.
Discussions are ongoing for Australia to play another international friendly, with Iran as the top contender, though the opponent isn’t final yet.
Tickets
Anto Augustine confirmed that tickets go live on 18th October 2025, though the booking platform is yet to be announced.
Tickets for Messi’s G.O.A.T India Tour sold out instantly, and this event features all Argentine players. So, be ready on 18th October with your payment methods and check this website for ticket-sale updates.
Busting Early Rumours
Rumours online claimed the tour might be cancelled due to Messi’s busy schedule or risk of injury before the Finalissima 2026, with reports from TyC Sports, an Argentina publication agency suggesting a shift to Africa, possibly Morocco an opponent.
However, Anto Augustine’s confirmation officially ended all rumours.
Argentina in India
Messi and La Albiceleste last visited India in 2011, defeating Venezuela 1–0 at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, with Nicolas Otamendi scoring the only goal.
This marks Argentina’s second India visit and Messi’s second trip this year — in November for the friendly and in December for his G.O.A.T India Tour.
Fans are ecstatic. With Kerala’s deep football passion and supporters from across India expected to attend, this could become one of the biggest sporting events in Indian history.
