Sunil Chhetri’s Farewell: End of an Era for Indian Football

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19 June 2024: Sunil Chhetri, the talismanic striker and captain of the Indian football team, has announced his retirement from international football, marking the end of an illustrious 19-year career. Chhetri departs as India’s second-highest goal scorer with 94 goals and the fourth-highest among active players worldwide.

Chhetri’s final match for India, a World Cup qualifier against Kuwait at the iconic Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) in Kolkata, ended in a goalless draw. The match was more about celebrating Chhetri’s storied career than the scoreline, with nearly 59,000 fans in attendance to bid farewell to the player who has been the face of Indian football for nearly two decades.

Chhetri’s international journey began in 2005 against Pakistan, where he made an immediate impact with a goal. Over the years, he has consistently delivered crucial performances, including a memorable hat-trick against Tajikistan in 2011, which helped India qualify for the Asian Cup for the first time in 27 years.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Chhetri has inspired a generation of footballers in a cricket-dominated nation. His dedication and unwavering commitment to the sport and his country have left an indelible mark on Indian football. Although Chhetri had brief overseas stints in Portugal and the United States, he spent most of his career in India, notably with Bengaluru FC. His retirement from international football does not signal the end of his playing career, as he continues to compete at the club level.

The emotional farewell at Salt Lake Stadium, featuring cheers from the crowd and an honor guard from his teammates, was a fitting tribute to a player who has given his all for the national team. Chhetri’s retirement signifies a turning point for Indian football and a challenge for the next generation to step up and fill the void left by a legend. His legacy will serve as a guiding light for aspiring footballers across the nation.

As Chhetri’s international career comes to a close, his story of perseverance, excellence, and an undying love for the game will continue to inspire. Sunil Chhetri will always be remembered as a player who carried the hopes of a billion hearts every time he stepped onto the field.