Kolkata: Football met festivity at its grandest on Saturday as Lionel Messi stepped into a roaring Salt Lake Stadium, sending the City of Joy into a frenzy on Day 1 of his much-awaited India tour.

From early morning, thousands of fans thronged the iconic venue, waving Argentina flags, donning Messi jerseys, and chanting the GOAT’s name long before the gates opened.

When Messi finally emerged to greet the crowd, the response was electric. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner acknowledged fans with waves and smiles, soaking in the atmosphere at one of Indian football’s most storied venues.

He has been presented with a special Mohun Bagan jersey bearing his name and the iconic No. 10. For many in attendance, it was a once-in-a-lifetime moment — seeing the man they had followed on television f

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