From ISL to FIFA , Sunil Chhetri’s Journey to Greatness Football
Indian beloved icon Sunil Chhetri has announced retiring from international football. This 39-year-old football player is known as ‘Captain Fantastic’. The last two decades of his football career brought him worldwide recognition. He is the best goal scorer for India, the score is fantastic 94!
On 6 June, Sunil Chhetri last appeared in the national team’s FIFA World Cup qualification match against Kuwait.
During the time of the announcement of retirement, Chhetri shared his mixed emotions. He recalled his remarkable journey from his debut in 2005 till date. Chhetri expressed the importance of his final match while also acknowledging the joy of being with his team for the last time.
His journey began with a memorable debut against Pakistan in Quetta, where his solitary goal secured a 1-1 draw for the national team. Since then, Chhetri has etched his name in Indian football history.
As we a farewell to a true legend of Indian football, let’s take a look back at Sunil Chhetri’s career journey :
1..Sunil Chhetri is the 3rd Highest Goal-Scorer at International Level Football:
In 2019, Sunil Chhetri became the third-highest active goalscorer in international football, surpassing Lionel Messi. He has a record of 94 goals in his name. Only Cristiano Ronaldo ranks higher on this list.
2.. Highest-Capped Indian Football Player
Sunil Chhetri is the most capped Indian football player, with over 150 matches to his name. He reached this position after making several appearances for the Indian national team. In the year of 2019, he overtook the record of Bhaichung Bhutia.
3.. Sunil Chhetri is known as ‘Captain Fantastic’. FIFA Documentary – ‘Captain Fantastic’
Chhetri was never on the FIFA World Cup stage, but FIFA remembered his journey in football!
A three-part documentary titled ‘Captain Fantastic’. Released ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The documentary recounted Chhetri’s career, his leadership qualities, and his extraordinary contribution to Indian football. This was a big moment for an Indian football player.
4.. An unbelievable performance in ISL- Indian Super League
Apart from Sunil Chhetri at the international level, his performance in the Indian Super League (ISL) is noteworthy. He is the top Indian goal-scorer in the league and one of the top 5 players overall. He set an incredible example by leading Bengaluru FC to their first ISL title.
5.. Sunil Chhetri received the Khel Ratna Award in 2021
In 2021, Sunil Chhetri received the Khel Ratna Award for his outstanding performance in Indian football.
Leading the national team to many victories during the period from 2017 to 2021. Chhetri put the Indian team on the global map.
Sunil Chhetri not only leads the football field but he also always leads the hearts of millions of people. He has fans all over the world. As soon as he announced his retirement, social media pages were flooded with reactions. Here are some of it:
