The highly anticipated friendly match featuring Lionel Messi's Argentina in India has been postponed to the next FIFA window. The game was originally scheduled for November 17 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi.
The postponement was announced by Anto Augustine, the managing director of Reporter Broadcasting Company, the sponsor of the match, via social media. Augustine stated that the decision was made after discussions with the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The primary reason for the postponement is a delay in securing the necessary approval from FIFA. Augustine indicated the match would likely be rescheduled during a future FIFA international match window, and the new date will be announced shortly.
However, reports from Argentine media suggest the match might be pushed back to March 2026.
The announcement follows weeks of uncertainty surrounding the event. Initial announcements faced conflicting statements, even involving the Kerala Sports Minister. At one point, the Minister claimed the match was canceled, but the AFA later confirmed in August that Argentina would still play in Kochi. Officials in the Kerala Sports Minister's office have stated they have not received any formal communication regarding the postponement and are awaiting confirmation after consulting with relevant authorities.
Adding to the confusion, a Spanish media outlet, La Nacion, reported that an AFA official stated the match would not proceed in Kerala because the state failed to meet hosting requirements and due to "repeated breaches". The official stated that Argentina did everything possible to make the match happen in November, including a delegation visit to inspect the field and hotel. However, India could not meet the requirements, leading to a reorganization of the contract to find a new date.
Despite the postponement of the friendly match, Messi is still expected to visit India in December 2025 as part of his 'GOAT Tour', covering Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. However, this tour is not expected to include any football matches.
