FIFA Approval Delay Postpones Argentina-Kochi Friendly, Says Kerala Sports Minister

Kochi: Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman said on Saturday that the planned visit of the Argentina football team, including star player Lionel Messi, to Kerala depends entirely on FIFA’s approval. He noted that Argentina had scheduled two matches in November—one in Angola and another in Kerala. "They are playing in Angola, but no announcement has been made about the second match. Even though the All India Football Federation and the Asian Football Confederation recommended it, and we met FIFA's vice-president, the approval is still pending," the minister said.
Abdurahiman added that all documents required for FIFA approval were submitted on Friday night. He said inspections at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi have been completed. "Currently, the stadium uses halogen lights, which take time to turn on. We have issued a tender to replace them with new lights. Fire and safety audits are done, and only FIFA approval remains pending. FIFA can grant approval based on the current stadium arrangements. We were asked to submit some additional papers, which we have done. We expect approval at FIFA’s next meeting," he said.
The minister explained that the Thiruvananthapuram stadium was rejected due to rough field conditions. "Though the Kochi stadium is in good shape, a few minor issues have delayed FIFA's approval," he added. He also said that Messi could have visited Kerala alone, but the government preferred hosting the full Argentine team. "A Messi roadshow would not benefit the sports sector, so we wanted the full team match. We do not view the delay negatively," he said. Abdurahiman further noted that some emails from Kerala residents raising concerns about the stadium contributed to the delay. "AFA representatives visited and were satisfied with the facilities, but emails from certain individuals here caused delays. Our own people are behind blocking of the event," he said.
Earlier, Anto Augustine, the sponsor of the proposed friendly match along with the state sports department, had announced that the Argentina team led by Messi would play in Kochi on November 17. However, Augustine said on his Facebook page that the match will not take place next month. "Considering the delay in receiving FIFA's permission, after discussions with the Argentine Football Association (AFA), it has been decided to postpone the match from the November window," he wrote. He said the match in Kerala will now be held during the next international window, and the new date will be announced soon.
AFA representatives had already visited the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi to assess the facilities. The Argentina national team was expected to play against a top international side in the friendly match.