Anger and vandalism in Kolkata as Lionel Messi fans invade Salt Lake Stadium pitch

Lionel Messi's highly-anticipated arrival at the Salt Lake Stadium ended fleetingly, triggering a trail of chaos. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

Messi's visit to the field lasted only about 20 minutes, when the entire event of the Kolkata leg was supposed to last four hours. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

Chaos broke out soon after Messi exited the field, with upset fans attempting to break the gates and throwing bottles onto the turf. (Express Photo by Parth Paul)

Fans pose amidst the ruins of banners and chairs during the Kolkata leg of Lionel Messi's GOAT Tour inside the Salt Lake Stadium. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

Spectators attempt to bring down the tent erected near the ground, shortly after Messi exited the stadium from the shade. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

People barge into the ground after breaking chairs and the gates tjhat separated the stands from the field. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

Policemen collect chairs destroyed and thrown by spectators onto the field past the fence. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

The crowd also tried to set the VIP sofas on fire at the Salt Lake Stadium but it was immediately doused. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

A local Messi supporter breaks down after the chaos. "Will Messi come again in this country?" he asks. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)