In an ultimate day for GOAT Event, the legendary Lionel Messi—The G.O.A.T.—personally honored Minerva Academy Football Club (MAFC) during the final leg of the G.O.A.T. Tour at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The felicitation celebrated Minerva’s U-15 squad, who secured the unprecedented title of World Youth Champions after clinching a historic European Treble last August.
The recognition comes on the back of a decade of dominance, during which Minerva Academy has led the transformation of India’s grassroots structure, notably winning the I-League and dominating national youth leagues. Earlier this year, the U-15 team made global headlines by becoming the first Indian side in history to win the Gothia Cup (Sweden), Dana Cup (Denmark), and Norway Cup in a single season, conquering Europe’s most prestigious youth tournaments with an unbeaten run.
In honour of these achievements, the Minerva Academy U-15 team was invited to participate in a special 9-a-side exhibition match. They faced off against a ‘Celebrity All-Stars’ team featuring prominent figures like Amit (Crazy XYZ), Abhishek Malhan (Fukra Insaan), Will John, and Indian footballer Manisha Kalyan, alongside Sabareesh (Freestyler), Harman Singh (Actor), Gagan Kokri and Karamvir Singh (Punjabi Singers), Feroze Ali, Diego (Content Creators), Kaljit (Football Freestyler), and Radhya Ickrath (Youtuber).
The young Warriors of Minerva Academy delivered a convincing performance, routing the All-Stars team with a dominant 6-0 victory, showcasing the talent that conquered Europe. Beyond the match, Minerva Academy FC served as the core organising committee, providing essential personnel. A total of 20 ball boys and 10 stretcher boys were provided by Minerva, and almost 75 kids from the academy, along with staff, were present to attend the event, making it a great, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the young participants. Minerva’s involvement included providing the referees and linesmen, ensuring the smooth and successful execution of the entire event, including the coaching clinic.
The event culminated in an unforgettable ceremony where the Under-15 Champions received their due recognition. Following the match, the team had a once-in-a-lifetime handshake ceremony and a formal felicitation by global icons Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Rodrigo De Paul for their historic European triumph.
“This is more than just a felicitation; it is a profound acknowledgment of Indian football’s potential by the greatest player to ever grace the game. This opportunity is a life-changing moment for our young champions and will inspire countless others across India to dream big.” — Ranjit Bajaj, Director, Minerva Academy FC