Shillong: Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri made a sensational return to international football as he led the Indian national team in their friendly match against Maldives at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Wednesday. Chhetri, who had announced his retirement last year, reversed his decision earlier this month, much to the delight of Indian football fans.
The 40-year-old forward, who is the fourth-highest goal-scorer in men’s international football, last played for India in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kuwait in June 2024, in front of a packed crowd of nearly 59,000 fans in Kolkata. However, after India’s failure to qualify for the World Cup, Chhetri decided to hang up his boots — a decision that he has now overturned, setting his sights on leading India to success in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Chhetri’s Comeback After Stellar ISL Season
Chhetri’s return comes on the back of an outstanding domestic season in the 2024–25 Indian Super League (ISL). Despite his age, he finished the season as the second-highest scorer overall with 12 goals from 24 matches, making him the top-scoring Indian player in the league. His consistent form and leadership have clearly inspired national coach Manolo Marquez to reinstate him as captain.
Chhetri’s inclusion in the starting XI against Maldives marks his first game for the national team in nine months, reinforcing his status as a pivotal figure in Indian football.
India’s First Match in Shillong
The match holds historic significance as it marks the first-ever appearance of the Indian national football team in Shillong — a city known for its passionate football culture. Speaking ahead of the game, head coach Manolo Marquez expressed his excitement about playing in the hill town.
“It’s the first time we are playing here, but I have worked with a lot of coaches and players from this region. I remember watching the Durand Cup in Shillong last year and thinking, ‘Wow, the ground, the crowd, the atmosphere — everything is amazing.’ I am thrilled that the national team is finally playing here,” Marquez said in the pre-match press conference.
The friendly against Maldives serves as a key preparation for India’s crucial Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh on March 25. Marquez, who took charge as India’s head coach in July 2024, sees this match as an opportunity to fine-tune the squad and test combinations ahead of the competitive fixture.
A New Chapter Under Marquez
Manolo Marquez has been tasked with guiding India to a strong showing in the Asian Cup qualifiers and building a squad capable of competing at the highest level. With Chhetri back in the fold, the team’s attacking options receive a significant boost.
Chhetri’s leadership, experience, and goal-scoring prowess will be crucial as India aims to secure qualification for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. His return has injected fresh energy into the squad and reignited hope among fans.
What’s Next for India?
- Next Match: India vs Bangladesh (March 25, 2025) – Asian Cup Qualifier
- Venue: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
- Time: 7:30 PM IST
With Chhetri leading the charge, India’s football journey has taken an exciting turn. Fans will be hoping that the veteran striker can inspire the Blue Tigers to a successful campaign in the upcoming Asian Cup qualifiers.
