Sunil Chhetri, the 38-year-old football legend and soon-to-be parent, continues to make waves in the international football scene. With an impressive record of 93 goals from 142 matches, Chhetri has secured the third spot in the list of top goal scorers among current players. He stands tall alongside iconic figures Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Indian Men’s Football Triumphs in SAFF Championship
Recently, the Indian men’s football team achieved a significant milestone by clinching the SAFF championship. The hard-fought victory came after a thrilling match against Kuwait that concluded in a penalty shootout. Spearheading this remarkable achievement was none other than the remarkable Sunil Chhetri.
Sunil Chhetri: A Two-Decade Legacy
Sunil Chhetri has dedicated nearly two decades of his life to serving Indian football, and his contributions have not gone unnoticed. In his illustrious career, he has earned countless accolades, with his latest feat being one of the most prestigious. Chhetri now holds the distinction of being the third-highest goal scorer among current players, with only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of him.
Chhetri’s Impact on Indian Football
Despite India’s enduring love affair with cricket, football has been steadily gaining popularity in the country. While the Indian football team is yet to make a significant mark in the FIFA World Cups, Sunil Chhetri’s spirit remains unshaken. Over the past three weeks, he led his team to victory in both the Inter-continental Cup and the SAFF Championship, showcasing his determination and skill.
Chhetri’s Impressive Record
With an impressive tally of 93 goals from 142 matches, Sunil Chhetri’s goal-scoring prowess is evident. However, he humbly stands behind the exceptional records of Cristiano Ronaldo (123 goals from 200 caps) and Lionel Messi (103 goals from 175 matches). Additionally, Chhetri ranks fourth in the list of all-time goal scorers, with Iranian legend Ali Daei holding the third position with 109 goals from 148 matches.
Sunil Chhetri is among the World’s Finest Footballers
What sets Sunil Chhetri apart is his inclusion among the world’s top footballers. The list features players from countries renowned for their footballing heritage. Notable names include Hungarian legend, Ferenc Puskas, occupying the sixth position with 84 goals, and Poland’s Robert Lewandowski, ranked eighth with 79 goals. Among these celebrated individuals, Sunil Chhetri shines as a beacon of Indian footballing prowess.
India’s Quest for World Cup Qualification
While India’s football tourism industry continues to thrive, securing a spot in the FIFA World Cup has remained elusive. However, the Indian national team, known as the Blue Tigers, has showcased commendable performances by reaching two consecutive Asian Cup finals. Although qualifying for the World Cup from Asia has been a distant dream, the progress made by the Indian team underlines their growing potential.
Chhetri’s Influence on Indian Football Fans
Sunil Chhetri’s impact extends beyond the football pitch. He has consistently appealed to Indian football enthusiasts to support their national team as passionately as they do during cricket matches. Chhetri’s jersey represents an overwhelming sense of pride and inspires faith in the Indian Football team. In his own words, “You cannot have the skills of Ronaldo or score goals like him, but nobody can stop you from working as hard as him.” Chhetri’s dedication and hunger for success continue to earn him the admiration of fans and experts alike.
Sunil Chhetri: The Go-To Scorer for the Blue Tigers
Even after all these years, Sunil Chhetri remains the go-to man for the Blue Tigers when it comes to scoring goals. As aptly pointed out by BBC, Chhetri’s passion and desire to find the back of the net have not wavered. His unwavering commitment to the sport and his team makes him an invaluable asset for Indian football.
In conclusion, Sunil Chhetri’s remarkable achievements and exceptional goal-scoring abilities have solidified his status as one of the world’s finest footballers. His contributions to Indian football have been invaluable, and he continues to inspire generations of aspiring players. As he climbs higher in the international goal scorer list, Chhetri’s legacy is destined to leave an indelible mark on the sport.
Source: LiveMint
