Lionel Messi Captivates Delhi Fans During Special Event
Messi's Enthralling Visit to Delhi
Fans in Delhi expressed their admiration for one of the world's top footballers, Lionel Messi, during his recent appearance at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Although the crowd was thrilled to see Messi, they were eager for more interaction from the Argentine superstar, who spent just over 40 minutes at the venue.
Messi arrived late, accompanied by his close friends Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, due to a delayed flight from Mumbai caused by bad weather. Despite the hour-long delay, he was greeted with cheers and fireworks upon his arrival.
Prior to Messi's entrance, a friendly match took place between the Messi Celebrity XI and trainees from the Minerva Football Academy, which ended in a 6-0 victory for the academy players. However, the rest of the planned activities had to be shortened due to time limitations.
The anticipated 'football clinic' with 30 children turned into a casual kick-around, featuring Messi and his friends engaging in one-touch passing with a few 10-year-olds. The highlight of the event was Messi taking a lap around the stadium, where he acknowledged his fans and even kicked footballs into the crowd, astonishing many by sending one to the top tier of the Mohinder Amarnath Stand. He also took time to pose for photos and sign autographs for eager fans.
To conclude the event, Messi and his group were invited to a grand stage where the winning team received a trophy and a group photo opportunity.
ICC chief Jay Shah presented Messi with the inaugural ticket for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, along with India team jerseys for Messi, Suarez, and De Paul, and a signed bat from the Indian team.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta made a brief visit to honor the football legend. Former Indian men's football captain Bhaichung Bhutia and former women's team goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan also had the chance to meet Messi, with the latter receiving a signed jersey and engaging in conversation with the star.
Messi and his entourage are set to be hosted next by Anant Ambani of Reliance Industries at Vantara.