On May 16, 2024, the Indian football fraternity bid farewell to one of its greatest stalwarts, Sunil Chhetri, as he announced his retirement from international football. With his last match set against Kuwait on June 6, 2024, at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, Chhetri’s remarkable journey as the backbone of the Indian national team comes to a close. As we commemorate his illustrious career, let’s delve into the captivating story of Sunil Chhetri, uncovering lesser-known facts about his achievements, trophies, awards, and the indelible mark he has left on Indian football.
Sunil Chhetri, the beacon of Indian football, has illuminated the field with his remarkable talent and dedication. Born on August 3, 1984, in Secunderabad, his journey from a young football enthusiast to the record-breaking striker has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Sunil Chhetri’s Debut and Matches Played:
Sunil Chhetri’s debut on June 12, 2005, against Pakistan in Quetta marked the beginning of a saga that would resonate through the annals of Indian football. Over the years, he graced the field in 150 matches, shouldering the responsibility of captaincy in 87 of them. His leadership and consistency became the cornerstone of Indian football, earning him admiration from fans and respect from opponents alike.
Goals Scored and Records Broken:
With an astonishing tally of 94 goals, Chhetri stands tall as India’s all-time leading goal scorer. His ability to find the back of the net with precision and poise has elevated him to legendary status in Indian football. Moreover, he shattered barriers by becoming the first Indian to breach the 50-goal mark in international football, a testament to his enduring excellence on the field.
Trophies Won:
Chhetri’s trophy cabinet gleams with the glory of triumphs achieved on both national and international stages. His contributions were pivotal in securing victories in prestigious tournaments such as the Jawaharlal Nehru Cup, AFC Challenge Cup, Hero Intercontinental Cup, Hero Tri-Nation Cup, and SAFF Cup. Leading the team to victory in multiple editions of these tournaments solidified his legacy as a champion and a leader par excellence.
Hat-Tricks and Memorable Performances:
Chhetri’s name is synonymous with clutch performances and unforgettable hat-tricks that left an indelible mark on Indian football. From his stellar hat-trick in the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup Final against Tajikistan to his recent heroics in the 2023 SAFF Cup against Pakistan, each performance showcased his sheer brilliance and tenacity. Notably, he remains the only Indian to score a hat-trick in the final of an international tournament, a feat achieved in the AFC Challenge Cup in 2008.
Awards and Accolades:
In addition to his on-field heroics, Chhetri has been the recipient of a plethora of awards and accolades, recognizing his contribution to Indian football. From the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2011 to the Padma Shri in 2019 and the Khel Ratna in 2021, his accolades reflect his stature as a sporting icon. Furthermore, he has been honored by organizations such as the AFC and AIFF, cementing his status as an Asian football legend.
