KOLKATA: Kolkata is preparing for a moment many in the football-loving city have dreamt of for years, as Lionel Messi is set to arrive on 13 December. In the northern suburb of Lake Town, the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club has constructed what it claims is the world’s largest statue of the Argentinian icon — a 70-foot iron structure depicting Messi lifting the World Cup trophy. Built in just 40 days, the statue awaits a virtual inauguration by Messi himself, with organisers giving it final touches ahead of the footballer’s visit. Across the city, anticipation is reaching a fever pitch. For thousands of Messi supporters in Kolkata, the countdown has already begun. Many who secured tickets for Saturday’s event describe the wait as “pure happiness”, with some comparing the passes to treasur

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