The spotlight will shine brightly on India’s upcoming World Cup qualifier match against Kuwait on June 6, 2024. The anticipation is palpable as this game marks the swansong of Sunil Chhetri, the esteemed captain of the Indian men’s football team.
Chhetri, a stalwart in Indian football, last month announced his retirement from international football. The announcement added an emotional layer to this significant fixture.
Having made his debut against Pakistan in 2005, Chhetri has left an indelible mark on Indian football, having graced the field in 150 matches for the Blue Tigers.
His illustrious career boasts an impressive record of 94 goals, a feat unparalleled by any other Indian player. As we reflect on his remarkable journey, it’s fitting to delve into the intricacies of his goal-scoring prowess against various opponents at the international level.
ONE GOAL
Against Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Bahrain, Macau, North Korea, Palestine, Philippines, Cameroon, Curacao, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, South Korea, and Vanuatu, Chhetri has netted a solitary goal against each.
While Chhetri has found the back of the net against many nations, there are 16 countries where he has yet to register a goal, underscoring the challenges and dynamics of international football.
TWO GOALS
Further illuminating his goal-scoring ability, Chhetri has notched two goals against some quality opponents such as Syria, Oman, and Thailand. His ability to find the net against such opponents speaks volumes about his tenacity and skill as a striker.
THREE GOALS
Chhetri’s scoring record reveals three goals apiece against Myanmar, Malaysia, Guam, Bhutan, and Vietnam.
FOUR GOALS
In encounters against Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kenya, Chhetri has been particularly lethal, netting four goals against each. Notably, his debut international goal against Pakistan set the stage for a stellar career filled with numerous memorable moments.
FIVE GOALS
Against Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Cambodia, Chhetri has showcased his goal-scoring ability with five goals against each opponent, further solidifying his status as a prolific striker.
SIX GOALS
Chhetri has scored six goals against Bangladesh and Chinese Taipei, with Chhetri displaying both quantity and consistency across multiple appearances.
EIGHT GOALS
The Maldives stands out as another formidable opponent against whom Chhetri has scored eight goals in six appearances. His inaugural goals against the Maldives in 2011 marked the beginning of a prolific scoring record against this opponent.
NINE GOALS
Finally, Nepal emerges as Chhetri’s most prolific adversary, with nine goals scored in 13 appearances. This remarkable statistic highlights Chhetri’s contributions against formidable opponents.
As we bid farewell to this legend of Indian football, Sunil Chhetri’s goal-scoring exploits against various nations will be a force to be reckoned with for the athletes rising to the occasion in the future.
Also Read:
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
