Watch: Chaos at Kolkata Salt Lake Stadium as Angry Messi Fans Vandalise Property After Match Cancellation
Chaos erupted at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium as angry Lionel Messi fans vandalised property after the GOAT India Tour match was cancelled due to poor management and crowd chaos.
Massive chaos erupted at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium (Yubha Bharati Krirangan) after disappointed fans lost their temper during Lionel Messi’s GOAT India Tour, following confusion, poor arrangements, and the sudden cancellation of Messi’s much-anticipated match.
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Fans who had travelled from different states to watch Messi in action expressed deep anger after the football icon left the stadium without playing a match, triggering vandalism inside the venue.
Fans Furious Over Not Getting Proper Glimpse of Messi
According to eyewitnesses, thousands of fans packed the stadium hoping to see Lionel Messi play, but were left frustrated when political leaders, organisers, and special invitees surrounded Messi, blocking the crowd’s view.
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Many fans alleged that:
- Leaders and organisers wasted time taking photos
- Messi stayed inside the stadium for only a few minutes
- No match, penalty kick, or practice session took place
This led to widespread disappointment among supporters.
Vandalism Inside Salt Lake Stadium
As frustration grew, a section of Messi fans turned violent, damaging stadium property. Reports from the ground confirmed that:
- Chairs were broken and thrown
- Water bottles were hurled
- Temporary tents were pulled down
- Stadium property suffered significant damage
The situation worsened rapidly, forcing authorities to step in.
Rapid Action Force Deployed to Control Situation
With tensions spiralling out of control, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was deployed to restore order at the Salt Lake Stadium. Security personnel worked to evacuate Messi safely as angry fans continued to protest poor management.
Officials later confirmed that Messi left the stadium, and the scheduled match was officially cancelled.
Planned Events Cancelled Amid Chaos
Due to the unrest, several planned activities could not be completed, including:
- Felicitation of Bengal’s Santosh Trophy-winning football team
- “Master Class with Messi” session for children
- Public interaction programs inside the stadium
Fans said the cancellation added to their frustration after spending money, time, and emotions on the event.
Fans Speak Out: “Terrible Management”
Several fans openly criticised the organisers, saying the event was poorly handled. Many questioned how such a high-profile event lacked proper crowd management and clear scheduling.
Fans alleged that promises were made about special appearances and a full Messi interaction, but none materialised.
Questions Raised Over Event Management
The incident has raised serious questions about:
- Crowd control at large-scale sporting events
- Event planning for international sports icons
- Safety and communication with ticket holders
Authorities are expected to review security and organisational lapses following the incident.
Growing Discontent Among Football Fans
The Salt Lake Stadium chaos has left a bitter memory for football lovers who were eager to witness Messi’s magic live in India. Many fans have demanded accountability and refunds, calling the event a major letdown.