Lionel Messi to play in Kolkata
Lionel Messi, the magician, the playmaker, the current best player in the world is all set to showcase his never-ending talent once again. Wondering what is new with it? What is the difference this time? He does it all the time and will continue to do when the next season starts. So what is it all about?
Well stop wondering because it is really a unique and a priceless moment for the fans in India. FIFA Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi is all set to make to his first ever appearance on the Indian soil in the crazy football city of India, Kolkata. Messi will accompany his national team in an International friendly match between Argentina and Venezuela which will be played at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata on 2nd September 2011.
The news about the arrival of Messi and both the teams playing in the city was confirmed on Monday by the Celebrity Management Group. After rounds of rumour, it was confirmed that star will feature in the friendly tie against Venezuela.
It is indeed a crazy moment for city people, as Kolkata is known to be a city football fanatic. This does not end here for the fans. If Messi added to the excitement, then please hold on for a moment. This is not all. Carlos Tevez, another big name in football, will feature alongside Messi in the friendly encounter.
The last time the fans got to see something big was when German Giants, Bayern Munich arrived in the country. It was the farewell match for the legendary goal-keeper Oliver Kahn. However, though it was a great moment to see the legend hang up his gloves in India, somewhere down the line the fans were little disappointed as the Bayern Munich squad included more of the second-string and reserves players.
However, this time the fans do not have to be disappointed. The fans has been showered will every kind of joy this September. The organisers confirmed that barring injuries, both Argentina and Venezuela are contractually bound to bring their full strength squad.
The organisers stated “Both the AFA (Argentina) and FVF (Venezuela) are contractually bound to bring their full strength teams unless there are any injuries. So it can be confirmed that Messi and Tevez will play in Kolkata”
The West Bengal Government has assured that it will provide all the necessary support possible for this event as newly appointed Sports Minister, Mr. Madan Mitra, has appealed to make sure that the renovation of the Stadium will be completed before the match. The AIFF and IFA with both governing bodies have pledge all their support the make the match a big success.
AIFF Vice President Subrata Dutta stated, “It will be a historic day for Indian football. The popularity of football in the country will get a massive boost.”
The historic tie between Argentina and Venezuela will take place on 2nd of September 2011, 19.00 IST. Following the Kolkata match, Argentina will fly to Dhaka to play a friendly match against Nigeria on 6th of September.
Tags: Football, IFA Ballon d'Or winner, India, Indian Football, Kolkata, Lionel Messi, Salt Lake Stadium
