New Delhi. The Hyderabad leg of football legend Lionel Messi’s GOAT Tour was a stark contrast to the chaotic inaugural event in Kolkata. Messi spent a lot of time in this program held at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium and the fans also enjoyed a lot. Given what had happened in Kolkata, expectations before the Hyderabad event were quite limited. But everything seemed orderly here.
CM Reddy scored a goal, Rahul Gandhi was also present
The event started with a friendly match between Revanth Reddy 9s and Aparna All-Stars, which gave a light-hearted and festive atmosphere to the event. A few minutes after kick-off, the noise in the stadium suddenly increased, signaling the arrival of Messi and his entourage. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was already present at the stadium, while Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also attended the event and scored a goal himself to give his team a 4–0 lead.
Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul were welcomed by stopping the match midway. As soon as these three entered the field, the stadium echoed with applause and cheers from the spectators. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy himself was seen ensuring that no unnecessary crowd gathered around Messi, giving the spectators sitting in the stands a chance to watch him without any interruption. Messi and his teammates took part in a light kickabout with the Chief Minister and the children present on the field.
What did Messi say in Hyderabad
The event concluded with a presentation ceremony, where Messi addressed the fans in Spanish. He thanked the love and support he has received over the years and said it was an honor to spend time in India and meet the supporters who have been a part of his journey, especially remembering the support he received during Argentina’s World Cup victory.
Messi said, ‘I want to say thank you for the love I have received today and always. Before coming here and during the last World Cup, I saw a lot. Heartfelt thanks for your affection. It is an honor for us to share this day with all of you in India. I am very grateful. Thank you.’
Messi met Rahul Gandhi
During the presentation ceremony, Rahul Gandhi was also seen having a brief conversation with Messi. After the disappointment and chaos in Kolkata, the Hyderabad leg felt like a fresh start for the GOAT Tour.
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