India Could Host Back-to-Back Football Friendlies Featuring Australia and Argentina

Argentina vs Australia Confirmed in Kochi

Football fans in India could witness a spectacular double-header next month as Kochi gears up to host Argentina vs Australia on November 17. Anto Augustine, managing director of Reporter Broadcasting Company, the sponsor of the match, confirmed that the World Cup-winning Argentina squad will be in India and Lionel Messi is expected to play.

“Argentina will arrive in Kochi on November 15, while Australia lands on November 10,” Augustine told The Hindu, adding that the Australian team will be accompanied by a delegation from the Australian government.

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Possibility of a Second Australia Friendly

India might also host another international friendly featuring Australia in Kochi. “We could confirm it only after a few days, but efforts are on to get a strong team for Australia to play against,” Augustine said, hinting that Iran is one of the teams under consideration.

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Global Broadcast and Fan Engagement

The matches are set to reach a global audience, with television rights being finalized for a prominent Indian sports channel. Augustine said, “We are starting a roadshow on October 17, beginning at Kozhikode and covering all 14 districts of Kerala. There will also be a music show by A.R. Rahman.”

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Tickets and Fan Access

Tickets for the Argentina-Australia friendly will go on sale from October 18, giving fans across India the chance to watch top international players, including Messi, live on home soil.