Hyderabad's Football Glory Days Set for Messi-Inspired Revival
Hyderabad prepares to welcome football icon Lionel Messi on December 13 in what promises to be a landmark event for the city's sporting landscape. The Argentine superstar confirmed his Hyderabad visit through an Instagram post, generating massive excitement among Indian football enthusiasts.
The historic match will take place at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal, where Messi and Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy will lead opposing teams named 'LM-10' and 'RR-9' respectively. Both leaders will wear their signature jersey numbers during the kickoff, according to sources in the chief minister's office.
Reliving Hyderabad's Rich Football Heritage
Hyderabad was once considered among India's football powerhouses, producing legendary players like Victor Amalraj, Tulsidas Balaram, and Syed Nayeemuddin during the golden era from the 1950s through the 1970s. The city's football pedigree includes an impressive 14 Olympians, 21 international footballers, national coaches, and FIFA referees.
Despite this glorious history, Hyderabad's football legacy gradually faded over time. Messi's visit represents a significant opportunity to reignite passion for the sport and restore the city's position in Indian football.
Match Details and Special Opportunities
While neither Messi nor Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is expected to play the entire match, fans will be treated to special moments showcasing the football legend's extraordinary skills. Messi will demonstrate his famous dribbling and close ball control for several minutes during the friendly encounter. Both team captains are also scheduled to take penalty shots before other programmed events.
In an exciting development for local football enthusiasts, the Chief Minister's Office is preparing to launch an online campaign that will give two lucky citizens the chance to play alongside Messi on December 13. Selected participants will need to display their football skills before final confirmation.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, known for his love of football and occasional games with school children, has previously challenged political rivals to football matches on social media platform X.
Broader Impact on Telangana's Sports Vision
The state government views Messi's visit as a strategic opportunity to enhance Telangana's global visibility and position Hyderabad as a premier sporting, cultural, and economic hub. In line with this vision, Chief Minister Reddy has already urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to allow Hyderabad to host certain disciplines if India wins the bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.
Telangana is making substantial investments in sports infrastructure, including establishing a sports university. The state government also plans to request Messi serve as global brand ambassador for the 'Telangana Rising 2047' initiative, leveraging his international stature to promote the state worldwide through sports, tourism, investment outreach, and youth programs.
Chief Minister Reddy expressed his enthusiasm on X, stating: "I look forward to welcoming and hosting G.O.A.T. Lionel Messi in Hyderabad on December 13. It is an exciting moment for our city and for every football fan who has dreamt of seeing a legend like you on our soil."
Hyderabad was initially not part of Messi's India itinerary but was added after his proposed friendly in Kochi was cancelled. His India tour begins on December 13 at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium, followed by the Hyderabad visit the same evening, with subsequent stops in Mumbai on December 14 and New Delhi on December 15 for additional matches.
