Bangladesh, Dec. 13 -- What should have been a moment of pride for Indian football turned into a public embarrassment at Kolkatas Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. Lionel Messi—arguably the greatest footballer of the modern era—arrived, waved, smiled, and left. In his wake, the stadium descended into chaos, vandalism, and public outrage, exposing a shocking failure of governance, planning, and accountability.

For a city that prides itself on football heritage and global culture, the scenes from Yuba Bharati were nothing short of humiliating.

Thousands of fans, many paying premium prices, arrived with the hope of witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Instead, they were met with obstructed views, overcrowded stands, and an...