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Lionel Messi arrives in Hyderabad for second stop of GOAT India Tour after Kolkata chaos

Statesman News Service

Lionel Messi arrives in Hyderabad for second stop of GOAT India Tour


Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has arrived in Hyderabad, marking the second stop of his much-anticipated GOAT India Tour 2025. The FIFA World Cup winner was brought to the city amid tight security arrangements following chaos during the Kolkata leg of the tour earlier on Saturday.

Messi’s first stop in Kolkata ended in disorder after he left the event at Salt Lake Stadium earlier than scheduled. Supporters, many of whom had paid high ticket prices, expressed their disappointment by throwing bottles and chairs from the stands. Some reportedly entered the field and attempted to damage event infrastructure, including tents and goalposts.

Also read: Who is Satadru Dutta? Main organiser of Messi’s Kolkata event arrested after stadium chaos

Messi’s Hyderabad Schedule and Events

In Hyderabad, excitement remains high as Messi’s itinerary includes an exhibition football match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is expected to join the football icon on the field, adding political and public attention to the event.

The evening will also feature a grand musical celebration honouring Messi’s illustrious career and achievements in world football. Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, is also expected to attend the event.

According to the event organiser, Anuttam Reddy, musical performances will begin around 5:30 pm, while Messi is expected to reach the stadium between 7:00 and 7:30 pm. He said, “There is plenty of entertainment for everyone…Messi will be here with us on the ground for about 1 hour…As UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, he will engage with children.”

Fans Thrilled Ahead of Messi’s Appearance

Despite earlier disruptions in Kolkata, enthusiasm among fans in Hyderabad remains strong. Abhishek, a supporter who travelled from Maharashtra to meet the legend, said, “I am from Maharashtra. I came here to catch a glimpse of Lionel Messi. It is very great of him to come to India…I have been a supporter of Lionel Messi since childhood. It is a dream-come-true moment for me…Even if I get to see him for two minutes, that would be enough for me.”

With heightened security and a packed schedule, organisers are hoping Messi’s Hyderabad appearance will proceed smoothly and restore the celebratory spirit of the Lionel Messi India tour after the setbacks in Kolkata.

 

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