Daijiworld Media Network - Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, Apr 2: Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman on Thursday alleged that the Argentina national football team failed to honour its commitment to play a match in the state despite receiving payment, calling it a “betrayal” that disappointed football fans.

The minister said the state had made extensive efforts to host the international team, including securing sponsorships to arrange around Rs 250 crore for the proposed match featuring Lionel Messi.

“I had held several discussions to bring them here. It was not easy to find sponsors for such a huge amount. But after receiving the money, they did not come. We did not expect such a betrayal,” Abdurahiman told a television channel.

He further claimed that similar incidents had occurred in other countries as well. “They have reportedly taken money from at least five countries and not turned up. This is a matter where a case may have to be filed, and compensation sought,” he said.

The minister expressed disappointment over the impact on football enthusiasts in Kerala, stating that fans were eagerly awaiting the visit.

Earlier, in November last year, Abdurahiman had announced that the Argentina team, along with Messi, would visit Kerala in March this year.

Meanwhile, commenting on his political move, the minister said his decision to contest from Tirur constituency in the upcoming Assembly elections was not driven by electoral advantage but by a desire to address development concerns in his native region. He also expressed confidence that his absence from Tanur would not affect his party’s prospects.

Kerala is scheduled to go to Assembly polls on April 9.