The day at Mumbai's historic Wankhede Stadium was not just an event, but a confluence of emotions, memories, and dreams. For fans of both cricket and football, this moment was nothing short of a festival, as Argentine football legend Lionel Messi arrived in India as part of his ‘GOAT India Tour 2025’ and met Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on the same stage.
Where History Speaks, Messi is Welcomed
Wankhede Stadium, which witnessed India's 2011 World Cup victory and Virat Kohli's 50th ODI century, added another historic chapter to its legacy. Music, football, cricket, Bollywood, and politics – everything was on one stage. Every corner seemed ready to become the ‘Picture of the Day’.
The Sky Resounded with 'Messi... Messi' and 'Sachin... Sachin'
The program began with the anchor's enthusiastic introduction. As soon as Messi's name was mentioned, the stadium echoed with chants of 'Messi, Messi, Messi'. Every eye was waiting for the moment when the football magician would appear. Sachin Tendulkar, who was also present, witnessed this historic moment. When Sachin's name was mentioned, fans started chanting 'Messi... Messi' and 'Sachin... Sachin'. It was a truly goosebump-inducing moment.
A Confluence of Music, Culture, and Enthusiasm
Famous DJ Chetas took the stage and set the mood with Bollywood and international songs. Ed Sheeran's 'Sapphire', the 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem 'Waving Flag', and B Praak's 'Teri Mitti' – each song touched the hearts of the audience. Following this, cultural dance performances by students added an Indian touch to the event.
A Friendly Match, But the Spirit Was Completely Real
Afterward, a friendly football match was played between Indian Stars and Mitra Stars. Tiger Shroff, Jim Sarbh, footballer Nikhil Poojary, and Bala Devi took to the field for the Indian Stars team. Meanwhile, the Mitra Stars team included Sunil Chhetri along with Bengaluru FC's Rahul Bheke and Chinglensana Singh Konsham.
When Messi stepped onto the field, time seemed to stand still.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. Lionel Messi took to the field with his Inter Miami FC teammates, Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul. The roar of the stadium reached a crescendo. Messi acknowledged the love of the fans with a wave and a smile, displaying the humility of a true legend.
Messi and Chhetri's meeting: A historic moment for Indian football
After the match, both teams lined up to meet Messi. Then came the moment that will forever be etched in the history of Indian football. Lionel Messi and Sunil Chhetri came face to face and embraced. Two legends, heroes of two nations, a scene filled with respect and emotion. The most beautiful moment of emotion came when Messi presented Sunil Chhetri with his signed Argentina number 10 World Cup jersey.
In the viral video, Chhetri's "thank you" was not just a word, but a reflection of the respect shining in the player's eyes. Then they shook hands. Messi also congratulated Chhetri. Chhetri himself was wearing a jersey with Messi's name on it. Messi is currently the second-highest goalscorer in international football, while Chhetri is fourth. This historic meeting won the hearts of the fans.
Golden moments with Messi and young dreamers
Messi and his teammates spent time with young female football players associated with 'Project Mahadeva'. Passing the ball, sharing smiles, this was a lifelong dream for these girls. Perhaps a future FIFA World Cup player found new wings for her dreams right here.
A matter of respect, memories, and dreams
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis honored Messi and his teammates and presented them with special mementos. 'Project Mahadeva' was also formally launched. The Chief Minister said that seeing these children, he is confident that in the future, India will be seen playing in the FIFA World Cup.
Sachin and Messi: When two eras came together on one stage
The most emotional moment of the event came when Sachin Tendulkar arrived on stage. The God of Cricket and the God of Football together. Sachin presented Messi with a Team India jersey. The pictures became history. Sachin said, "I have lived countless memories here. The golden moments of 2011 were possible because of you. What can I say about Messi? He has achieved everything. His simplicity and dedication make him great. I hope Indian football also reaches great heights."
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