Hyderabad, December 13, 2025 - Football superstar Lionel Messi has brought his magic to Hyderabad as part of the GOAT India Tour 2025, following a tumultuous stop in Kolkata. The Argentine icon's arrival in Hyderabad promises a more joyful experience for fans after the chaos that unfolded at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
Messi's visit to Kolkata was marred by overcrowding and security breaches, leading to a curtailed appearance and significant fan disappointment. Spectators, who had paid significant sums for tickets, expressed their frustration by vandalizing the stadium after Messi's brief 22-minute presence. West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has since apologized to Messi and initiated an inquiry into the mismanagement.
Determined to offer a better experience, Hyderabad rolled out the red carpet for the football legend. Messi arrived at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Shamshabad between 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm, before heading to Falaknuma Palace for a private meet-and-greet with ticketed guests. Later in the evening, he proceeded to the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal for the main event.
The Hyderabad program included a 7v7 exhibition match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, featuring Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. The event also included a musical celebration of Messi's career achievements.
According to the schedule, stadium festivities began at 5:30 pm with cultural performances and musical acts featuring Telugu rappers and Tollywood artists. Messi was expected to arrive at the stadium between 7:00 pm and 7:30 pm, followed by a parade with teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul. The exhibition match kicked off at 7:50 pm between Singareni RR-9, led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, and the Aparna Messi All Stars. Messi was expected to play the final minutes of the match.
The "GOAT Cup" penalty shootout was held at 7:50 pm, with Messi and the Chief Minister slated to take penalty kicks. This was followed by a football clinic at 8 pm, where Messi, Suárez, and De Paul conducted a masterclass for selected children, including underprivileged youth. The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony.
Adding to the excitement, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was also present in Hyderabad and met with Messi. Messi gifted Argentina jerseys to both Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Rahul Gandhi.
Authorities in Hyderabad were keen to ensure a smooth and secure event. Rachakonda Police Commissioner G. Sudheer Babu stated that proper arrangements were in place, with 4,000 police personnel deployed and the entire area barricaded.
Despite the earlier setbacks in Kolkata, the anticipation and excitement surrounding Messi's visit to Hyderabad remained palpable. Fans hoped to witness the magic of the football icon in a more organized and enjoyable atmosphere, celebrating his remarkable career and achievements.
Following the Hyderabad event, Messi is scheduled to visit Mumbai on December 14 for the Padel GOAT Cup at Brabourne Stadium, followed by a celebrity football match. His tour will conclude in New Delhi on December 15 with events at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
