Indian football fans are in for a thrilling experience as Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team are set to visit Kerala in October 2025 for an international exhibition match. This marks Messi’s return to India 14 years after his first visit in 2011, when he played a World Cup qualifier against Venezuela in Kolkata.
The announcement was made following a partnership between HSBC India and the Argentine Football Association (AFA), aiming to promote football and create new opportunities in the sport across India and Singapore. As part of this collaboration, the Argentine team, led by their legendary captain Messi, will compete in a highly anticipated friendly match in Kochi, Kerala.
In November last year, Kerala’s Sports Minister V Abdurahiman had hinted at Argentina’s visit, stating that the team would play two friendly matches in the region. Now, HSBC India has officially confirmed the match for October 2025.
Argentina’s Growing Ties with India
The one-year partnership between HSBC India and the AFA covers the 2025 competitive season, leading up to the final 2026 World Cup qualification matches.
Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking at HSBC India, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating:
“As we join forces with one of the most celebrated football teams in the world, we aim to create unforgettable experiences for fans and support Argentina’s journey to the 2026 World Cup.”
AFA President Claudio Fabian Tapia also welcomed HSBC’s involvement, highlighting the global expansion of Argentine football. He emphasized that this agreement strengthens Argentina’s presence in India and Singapore while opening doors for potential partnerships in other regions.
With the Argentine squad featuring some of the world’s finest football talents, Indian fans can look forward to witnessing an exciting football spectacle in Kerala.
