At the age of 39, Sunil Chhetri, one of India’s most amiable captains made the heartbreaking announcement. He was quitting the game after the World Cup versus Kuwait. Having played 150 international matches and scored 94 goals, he is regarded as the player with the most cups.
The story of his career
Whenever discussing Indian football, Sunil Chhetri’s name always comes up first. In 142 matches, he scored 92 goals for his country, placing him as the third-best scorer. He now ranks third among active international goal scorers. Just behind Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, with 94 goals for his country.
The captain stated, “The games against Kuwait are highly competitive. And for qualifying for the next round, we need to score three points against them”. I don’t feel under pressure because Sunil stated oddly that these fifteen to twenty days are the last ones. Furthermore, his retirement was praised by All India Football Federation. “Your legacy on and off the field will always be remembered, with all your hard work and dedication”.
Sepp Blatter, the FIFA president, referred to India as the “sleeping giant” of the sport. India currently occupies number 121 i.e. one spot below the roughly 5.5 million population of Lebanon. In their most recent match, a 2-1 loss to Afghanistan in the World Cup, he scored a penalty. In the year 2002, Chhetri began his football career. He had previously played for Queens Park Rangers of the English Championship. However, he was unable to take advantage of the opportunity.
Moreover, as a result of not obtaining a work permit. Following that, he played for Portugal’s Sporting CP in the second level. Furthermore, he signed a contract with the Kansas City Wizards in the United States in 2010.
Sunil Chhetri: A legend
Together with India, he won the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup. With his SAFF Championship title victories in 2011, he made the country proud. He established himself as a dominant force in South Asia. Although with 77 objectives and 77 goals, Chhetri has now tied the record set by Ali Mabkhout of the United Arab Emirates. Although The legendary Pele of Brazil is regarded as one of the all-time greats in football. “He is the role model for many Indian kids for being a football player”.
A Captain Who Led by Example
Chhetri wasn’t just a prolific scorer; he was a leader who embodied the spirit of Indian football. He wore the captain’s armband with immense pride. His dedication and work ethic serve as a constant motivation for his teammates. His never-say-die attitude on the field was infectious. And his hunger for success was a driving force for the Indian team.
A Fitting Farewell
Sunil Chhetri’s final international match on June 6th promises to be an emotional affair. It is an opportunity for fans to pay tribute to their hero Moreover celebrate his incredible career.
Chhetri’s retirement marks the end of an era. But his legacy will live on. He has been a true ambassador for Indian football. Thus, inspiring millions and raising the bar for future generations. As he hangs up his international boots, the nation salutes a legend. His passionate celebrations and his unwavering leadership will forever be etched in the hearts of Indian football fans.
