Sunil Chhetri's Farewell Match: India Faces Kuwait in FIFA World Cup Qualifier

India's Farewell to Sunil Chhetri in FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier Against Kuwait

India's legendary captain Sunil Chhetri will bid farewell to international football in a historic FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier match against Kuwait on Thursday, June 6. The match, to be held at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, marks the end of an illustrious career for the 39-year-old striker.

Chhetri, India's all-time leading scorer with 84 goals, has been instrumental in the team's rise in the FIFA rankings. Under his leadership, India has achieved its highest-ever ranking of 96th and has qualified for the AFC Asian Cup four times.

The FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers are a crucial step in India's quest to reach the global football showpiece for the first time. The top two teams from each of the nine groups of four teams will advance to the third stage, where Asia's eight World Cup berths will be decided.

India currently sits second in Group A, behind Oman, with six points from four matches. A win against Kuwait would boost their chances of finishing in the top two and advancing to the next round.

Kuwait, ranked 146th in the FIFA rankings, will be a tough opponent for India. The Kuwaitis have won two of their four matches in the qualifiers and will be looking to upset India in Chhetri's farewell match.

The match is expected to be an emotional affair for Chhetri and Indian football fans alike. Chhetri has been a symbol of hope and inspiration for the nation, and his retirement will mark the end of an era.

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