Hyderabad:Hyderabad witnessed a night to remember, as football legend Lionel Messi set foot on Hyderabad turf at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal, sending waves of excitement through tens of thousands of fans. Accompanied by his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, the Argentine icon took part in a friendly football session with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy that transformed the stadium into a carnival of cheers, colours and celebration.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy arrived at the stadium in match-ready attire to play for his team, Singareni RR-9, and hit the defining goal in the match, sending widespread cheers among fans. Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi watched the game, arriving in the city as a special gesture.
From as early as 5 pm, Uppal was buzzing with anticipation. Fans wearing Argentina jerseys, flags waving and cheers of “Messi Messi” filled the stands hours before the event. In sharp contrast to the Kolkata leg of the tour, which took place earlier in the day, the Hyderabad programme was organised smoothly, with elaborate security and logistical arrangements put in place by the police and state authorities.
The exhibition match was held between Singareni RR9 and Aparna Messi All Stars teams at the stadium, and fans cheered on every pass, corner kick and goal shot by players in the match.
When Messi finally walked into the stadium, the roar from the crowd was deafening. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner waved and walked on to the stadium grounds and juggled with a football, instantly winning hearts. Alongside Suárez and De Paul, Messi engaged in a light-hearted kickabout, exchanging short passes and enjoying the moment, while fans soaked in a sight rarely seen in Hyderabad.
A friendly penalty shootout between the two exhibition teams was held, as Messi, Suárez and De Paul watched closely from nearby. Team members of both Singareni RR and Messi All Stars held an intense penalty shootout. Finally, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy took to the spot himself to shoot the final penalty. Under the watchful eye of Messi, Suárez and De Paul, Revanth Reddy struck the ball cleanly into the net, scoring a high-profile goal that sent the stadium into raptures. The goal was celebrated with whistles, claps and chants.
Messi later took a lap around the stadium along with Suárez, De Paul and Revanth Reddy, acknowledging fans on all sides. Messi and De Paul delighted spectators by kicking footballs into the stands, while taking a lap around the ground.
One of the most heart-warming scenes unfolded when the football stars spent time with young players on the field. Messi, Suárez, De Paul and Revanth Reddy formed a circle with a group of young boys and girls, and played quick one-touch football.
Welcoming Messi formally, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy said, “Telangana is rising, come and be part of this rise.” Handing over the microphone, he invited the legend to address the gathering.
Messi responded briefly but warmly, saying, “Thank you very much for all your love,” as the crowd erupted once again. Rodrigo De Paul also shared his feelings, calling the night very special and thanking the people of Hyderabad for their care and affection.
“It was a memorable event. I feel so happy, looking at my idol walking in front of me and playing light hearted football…it’s a dream come true moment for me”, said Nikhil, a fan at the stadium.
Singers Rahul Sipligunj and Mangli gave spectacular music performances, after which a laser show in the stadium sent waves of excitement among fans.
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