Lionel Messi’s Kolkata Visit: A Dream Turned Disappointment

A Highly Anticipated Event

NEW DELHI: What was meant to be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration for football lovers in Kolkata quickly turned into heartbreak and anger. Lionel Messi’s much-awaited appearance at Salt Lake Stadium ended abruptly, leaving thousands of fans disappointed.

Sacrifices Made for a Glimpse of Greatness

Among the disheartened fans was one who made an extraordinary personal sacrifice: he skipped his own wedding to catch a glimpse of the Argentine legend. “Today is the 13th, and everyone knows that Messi was supposed to come to Kolkata. It’s my wedding today. Mera shaadi chhod ke aaya (I left my wedding and came here); but even then, our expectations were not fulfilled,” the fan expressed. His sentiments resonated with many in the packed stadium.

A Celebration Descends into Chaos

What began as a festive occasion during Messi’s Kolkata leg of the GOAT Tour quickly spiraled into chaos. Due to crowd management and security issues, the football icon was forced to leave the venue much earlier than planned. As news of his early exit spread, frustration erupted across the stands.

Angry Fans Respond to Disappointment

Angry spectators vented their frustrations by throwing water bottles and chairs, while some entered the pitch, attempting to vandalize tents and the goalpost. “Seeing the utter chaos, the management and the authorities—it was absolutely rubbish. All the people here love football. We all wanted to see Messi, but it was a total scam. We want our money back… The management was so bad. It is a black day for Kolkata,” one aggrieved fan lamented.

The High Cost of Admission with Low Returns

Another supporter echoed similar frustrations: “Absolutely terrible event. He came for just 10 minutes. All the leaders and ministers surrounded him. We couldn’t see anything. So much money, emotions, and time wasted.” Fans repeatedly pointed out the high ticket prices and lack of access, with one shouting, “Only leaders and actors surrounded Messi… Why did they call us then? We paid 12 thousand for tickets but couldn’t even see his face!”

Messi’s Earlier Event Heightens Expectations

Earlier in the day, Messi had virtually inaugurated a 70-foot statue of himself at Lake Town, depicting him holding the FIFA World Cup trophy. This event heightened anticipation among the fans, making the eventual letdown even more significant.

Lingering Disappointment

For many attendees, including the fan who left his wedding behind, the day ended in disappointment rather than the cherished memories they had hoped for.