AIFF clears air surrounding Messi friendly

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The All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Saturday tried to put an end to confusion surrounding the high profile International friendly between Argentina and Venezuela to be played in Kolkata, saying a few decks needed to be cleared so that Lionel Messi could be seen in action on September 2.

AIFF general secretary Kushal Das said that the FIFA did a 'mistake' by posting the details of the match on its website since the friendly was yet to be sanctioned by the world governing body.

"There is no reason why the match would not be held. But FIFA has done a mistake by putting the details on the website, something they have admitted," Das said.

"Event manager Celebrity Management Group (CMG) will write us a letter about the match highlighting the details about the progress and then we will officially invite the Argentine and Venezuelan federations. Only then an official sanction from FIFA will be granted.

"For the first time we are hosting a match at such a big scale. We want to examine everything so that it's conducted smoothly. The right process has to be followed," he added.

After a prolonged meeting with CMG and Indian Football Association (IFA) officials, Das also expressed concerns over the sorry state of affairs at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan that needed to be revamped urgently.

The AIFF general secretary also pointed out that the artificial turf at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan, where the match would be held, have to be improved on an urgent basis.

"Improving the turf is a priority. But at the same time there are some other areas like the logistical support, ground condition, security, crowd and media management, which will also be our concern," he said.

With reports that there was a stalemate with CMG over the levy for the match, Das said, "It would not be a problem. The executive committee will decide about it."

He said India's image was attached with the match and they would try their best not to tarnish it.

"Hopefully this will give a fillip to Indian football and sponsors who are backing cricket till now will change their mind."

CMG has got the rights for two matches involving Argentina. While the first one will be held here, the second one against Nigeria is slated for Dhaka on September 6.

As per the original programme, Messi and Co along with their Venezuela opponents are scheduled to land in Kolkata on August 30 for a four-day trip.