Football legend Lionel Messi thrilled 55,000 fans at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium during a well-organised G.O.A.T. Tour exhibition match.

Hyderabad Crowd Cheers as Messi Shines at G.O.A.T. Tour Event

Hyderabad turned into a football carnival on Saturday night as Lionel Messi took the field at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, entertaining a packed crowd of around 55,000 spectators. The exhibition match marked one of the smoothest stops of the G.O.A.T. Tour in India, following organisational hiccups reported at an earlier event in Kolkata.

Messi featured alongside local sides Singareni RR-9 and Aparna All Stars, creating light-hearted moments and interacting freely with players and guests. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, sporting a red No. 9 jersey, joined the action and even found the net, adding to the festive mood in the stands.

The Argentine star was also seen in conversation with Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who was presented with a signed “GOATED” jersey. Addressing fans later, Messi expressed gratitude for the warm reception, calling it an honour to spend time in India and play before such an enthusiastic audience.

The successful Hyderabad leg highlights the city’s growing ability to host global sporting spectacles beyond cricket. For local fans, events like these offer rare access to international football icons. From an organisational standpoint, the seamless execution may encourage more high-profile sports exhibitions in the region.