India recently declined the chance to host Lionel Messi’s Argentina for a friendly match during the international window this month. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) cited budget constraints and the high cost involved in hosting the world champions as the primary reasons for their decision. This turn of events disappointed football fans in India who were eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness Messi and Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, in action.
Let’s have a look into the details and understand why India had to let go of this rare opportunity: Lionel Messi’s Argentina
Financial Constraints
Hosting a team of Argentina’s caliber, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, comes at a significant cost. The AIFF revealed that the appearance fee demanded by Messi’s team would have amounted to a staggering $4-$5 million (approximately Rs. 32-40 crore). The governing body of football in India faced limitations in terms of their economic situation, making it unfeasible to arrange such a substantial sum.
Lack of Strong Partnership
To organize a match of this magnitude, the AIFF required the backing of a strong partner. Unfortunately, they couldn’t secure the necessary support to meet Argentina’s financial demands. Without a robust collaboration, the expenses associated with hosting Argentina became insurmountable, forcing India to turn down the opportunity.
India Turns Down Rare Opportunity to Host Lionel Messi’s Argentina: Here’s Why
Mismatch in Rankings
India’s football team is currently ranked 101 places behind Argentina, which holds the top spot in the FIFA rankings. Considering the vast disparity in rankings, AIFF acknowledged that a match between the two teams would have resulted in a significant mismatch. Hosting such an encounter could have led to an imbalanced and less competitive game, affecting the overall spectacle.
Continued Talks and Hope for Partnership
Despite the disappointment of missing out on hosting Messi and Argentina this time, the AIFF remains in ongoing discussions with the Argentina Football Association. The Indian governing body is interested in establishing a partnership with Argentina, and there is mutual interest from Argentina, including their clubs. Both parties are hopeful that they will find common ground and collaborate in the future.
Previous Connections and Support
India has a history of hosting Argentina’s national football team. In 2011, Messi captained Argentina to a 1-0 victory against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium in front of 85,000 enthusiastic spectators. The show of support from Indian fans during the World Cup in Qatar last year earned them appreciation from Argentina’s Ambassador to India, Hugo Javier Gobbi.
India Turns Down Rare Opportunity to Host Lionel Messi’s Argentina: Here’s Why
While it is disheartening for Indian football enthusiasts to miss the opportunity to witness Messi and Argentina as world champions, the financial constraints and limitations faced by the AIFF made it impractical to host the team at this time. Nevertheless, there is hope for future collaborations and partnerships between India and Argentina in the world of football. The passion for the sport remains strong, and fans can look forward to exciting opportunities in the future to witness the magic of Lionel Messi and his Argentine teammates on Indian soil.
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