An atmosphere of celebration turned chaotic late Sunday night after frustrated fans vandalised sections of an Indian stadium following the abrupt exit of Argentine football icon Lionel Messi from a much-hyped exhibition event.

Authorities said the damage was limited but significant enough to prompt an investigation into crowd management and event planning, as disappointed supporters vented their anger over what many described as a “betrayal of expectations.”

The incident occurred at the end of a sold-out friendly billed as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to see Messi play on Indian soil.

Tens of thousands of fans, some of whom had travelled hundreds of kilometres and paid premium prices for tickets, were left stunned when announcements confirmed that Messi would not take the field and had departed the venue shortly before kickoff.

According to organisers, Messi’s exit was prompted by “unforeseen logistical and security concerns,” a statement that did little to calm emotions inside the stadium.

Boos echoed from the stands, followed by chants demanding refunds and explanations.

As crowds began to disperse, a section of fans damaged plastic seating, tore down banners, and broke glass panels near concession areas, police said.

“No serious injuries were reported, but public property was damaged,” a senior police official told reporters.

“We had anticipated disappointment, but the scale of anger took us by surprise.

Additional forces were deployed to restore order and escort spectators safely out of the premises.”

Visuals circulating on social media showed overturned trash bins, graffiti scrawled on stadium walls, and security personnel attempting to restrain a small group of agitators.

By midnight, the situation was largely under control, though cleanup crews worked through the night to assess the damage.

For many fans, the sense of outrage stemmed from the months of promotion that preceded the event.

Billboards, television advertisements, and social media campaigns prominently featured Messi’s image, promising an unforgettable evening.

Supporters arrived wearing Argentina jerseys, carrying placards, and chanting his name, only to be met with what they felt was silence and secrecy.

“I saved for months to come here,” said Rakesh Kumar, a 26-year-old fan who travelled from Patna.

“If he wasn’t going to play, they should have told us earlier. People feel cheated.”

Event organisers defended their handling of the situation, insisting that contingency plans had been discussed but circumstances changed rapidly.

“High-profile athletes operate on tight schedules and complex security protocols,” an organising committee member said.

“We regret the disappointment caused and will address compensation concerns in due course.”

The state government ordered a preliminary inquiry into the incident, focusing on both the vandalism and the circumstances surrounding Messi’s withdrawal.

Officials indicated that responsibility would be fixed if lapses were found, particularly in communication with ticket holders.

Sports analysts say the episode highlights the growing pains of hosting mega sporting events in markets with intense fan passion but limited experience handling global superstars.

“Indian football fandom is emotional and aspirational,” said sports sociologist Ananya Sen.

“When expectations are raised sky-high and then collapse suddenly, reactions can be extreme.”

Messi’s management team has not commented directly on the vandalism but released a brief note expressing “regret for the disappointment caused to fans” and reaffirming respect for Indian supporters.

The statement did not clarify whether future appearances in the country were being considered.

Meanwhile, discussions around refunds and legal action have begun to surface.

Consumer rights groups have urged organisers to clearly outline compensation mechanisms, arguing that transparency is essential to rebuild trust.

“Fans are not just spectators; they are customers,” said a spokesperson for a Mumbai-based advocacy group. “They deserve accountability.”

As the stadium returns to normalcy, the incident serves as a cautionary tale for promoters and authorities alike.

While the allure of global icons can ignite unprecedented excitement, managing expectations, communication, and crowd safety remains crucial.

For thousands of fans who came hoping to witness history, the night will instead be remembered as a lesson in how quickly dreams can turn to disillusionment.