Argentine World Cup-winner Lionel Messi thrilled fans in Hyderabad on Saturday during his GOAT India Tour as he entertained fans with his magical touches at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium.
Messi juggled the ball a bit, much to the delight of the fans, and passed the ball around with Rodiro De Paul, Luis Suarez and Chief Minister of Telangana, Revanth Reddy.
Watch: Lionel Messi having some on the pitch as fans erupt in joy 🤩🐐
pic.twitter.com/RGQN8HUjdw— Koushik Biswas (@kbofficial25) December 13, 2025
Messi travelled to Hyderabad after a chaotic visit to Kolkata, where fans who eagerly spent their money to see the magician from Rosario were left disappointed. Politicians and organisers obstructed the Argentine superstar during his lap of honour at VYBK,
causing fans to become agitated as they couldn’t get a clear view of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. This led to security breaches, and Messi had to stop his lap of honour midway. Upset with the event’s organisation, fans began removing chairs and throwing various objects.
Messi arrived in Kolkata early on Saturday morning, and the city responded with great enthusiasm. Thousands of followers gathered at hotels, streets, and landmarks, hoping to catch a glimpse of the football icon.
Messi unveiled a statue of his likeness at Sree Bhumi Sporting Club at Lake Town in South Dum Dum. The massive statue depicts the legend holding the FIFA World Cup trophy, commemorating his crowning achievement with Argentina in Qatar.
This visit marks Messi’s first trip to India since 2011 when he played at the Salt Lake Stadium, helping Argentina edge Venezuela 1-0 in a friendly. Messi’s return was supposed to be a joyous occasion as he walked the Indian shores as a World Champion, fulfilling a dream with his unmatched genius on the grandest stage in Doha.
However, chaos ensued as celebrities and influential people mobbed the star, taking up the time and emotions of the common man, leading to an emotional outbreak.
The main issue was that fans were denied a clear view of their hero, whom they had come to see with great anticipation, only to feel deceived. Organisers, politicians, and celebrities took the spotlight, using their privileged access to share the stage with the man who captured the dreams of millions.
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