Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman on Friday took to social media expressing the state’s readiness to make arrangements to host Messi-Led Argentina’s match. His social media post comes at a time when reports say the All India Football Federation (AIFF) turned down an opportunity for the Indian National Football Team to face Lionel Messi-led Argentina in a friendly match. 

Abdurahiman who expressed disappointment over AIFF’s decision, highlighted possible outcomes for Indian football if the country had hosted the match. The minister elaborated on Kerala’s love for football, especially towards Argentina and Brazil. He also listed the various ways by which the state government tried to have a rapport with Argentina. 

He noted that those taking decisions about Indian football should think proactively. “Or else India will remain at its 101st position in FIFA ranking,” he wrote in his Facebook post.

“Kerala will always welcome Kerala by heart. We will also make arrangements to organise the match. That will be the best prize that can be given to football,” he added. 

It may be noted that Argentina FA  set aside two slots for national teams from across the globe to face off with their World Cup-winning team. Bangladesh and AIFF turned down the golden opportunity by citing budget constraints. As a result, Argentina faced Australia and Indonesia. Both matches recorded massive ticket revenue and was watched by millions from across the world. According to reports, AIFF decided to turn down the offer citing the huge costs involved in hosting Argentina.