Lionel Messi
| Photo Credit: AFP
The international friendly football match between defending World Cup champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, and Australia will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor, in Kochi, Kerala, on November 17, said a press release issued by the match sponsors, Reporter Broadcasting Company, on Tuesday (October 14, 2025).
Ticket fares will be announced within a few days.
The date has been officially confirmed by the Argentine Football Association. The Kerala government has also received formal communication regarding the event, the release stated.
When asked whether the government had received any official intimation, Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman said the sponsors had confirmed it.
Reporter Broadcasting Company managing director Anto Augustine said fans would have the opportunity to watch Lionel Messi and his team during their training session on the day before the match.
The released said an A.R. Rahman musical concert and a performance by rapper Hanumankind would be held on November 16, along with drone shows.
Preparations on
The sponsors claimed that preparations at the stadium are progressing at a cost of ₹70 crore. The entire venue is being refurbished to meet FIFA standards and provide world-class facilities. New seatings are being installed throughout the stadium, and high-intensity, international-grade lighting systems are being set up. The VIP galleries and pavilions will be among the major highlights of the upgraded venue. More than 2,000 workers are engaged in the renovation, which is expected to be completed within 30 days, the release noted.
Ticket prices for the match will be officially announced within the next two days.
Mr. Augustine clarified that all current reports circulating about ticket rates are false. Official ticket sales are expected to begin by October 18 or 19, he said.
Published – October 14, 2025 02:40 pm IST
