Football

India Faces Crucial FIFA World Cup Qualifier Against Asian Champions QatarThe Indian football team, led by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, faces a daunting task as they take on Asian champions Qatar in a crucial FIFA World Cup Qualifier on Tuesday, June 11. The match, to be played at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, Qatar, is a make-or-break encounter for India's hopes of reaching the third round of the qualifiers.India has never progressed beyond the second round of the World Cup qualifiers, but a victory against Qatar could change the course of history. The Blue Tigers have shown resilience and determination throughout the campaign, but they will need to perform at their best to overcome the formidable challenge posed by the hosts.Qatar, ranked 51st in the FIFA World Rankings, is a formidable opponent. They are the reigning Asian champions and have a wealth of experience in international football. India, ranked 106th, will need to play with discipline and execute their game plan flawlessly to have any chance of securing a positive result.The match will be a test of character for the Indian team. They will need to show mental strength and determination to overcome the pressure of playing away from home against a superior opponent. The absence of talismanic striker Sunil Chhetri, who retired from international football earlier this year, will be a significant blow, but the team will need to find a way to compensate for his loss.India's hopes rest on the shoulders of goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who has been in excellent form throughout the qualifiers. The defense, led by Sandesh Jhingan and Adil Khan, will need to be solid and organized to keep the Qatari attack at bay. The midfield, anchored by Anirudh Thapa and Brandon Fernandes, will need to control the tempo of the game and create chances for the forwards.The match will be a historic occasion for Indian football. A victory would not only secure a place in the third round of the qualifiers but also boost the confidence of the team and the nation. The Blue Tigers will need the support of every Indian fan as they embark on this crucial mission.

As Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri prepares to bid farewell to international football, he reflects on his illustrious career and the profound impact the sport has had on his life.Chhetri, who has graced the Indian jersey for 150 matches, scoring an astonishing 94 goals, is set to make his final appearance for the Blue Tigers on June 6 in the FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait. The match holds immense significance as a victory would propel India closer to a historic first-ever appearance in Round 3 of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and automatic qualification for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.In the twilight of his international career, Chhetri expresses a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country and the unwavering support he has received from his teammates and the football fraternity. "I'm filled with gratitude that I could play 150 matches for the country," he says.Reflecting on his journey, Chhetri acknowledges the challenges and sacrifices he has made along the way. "There have been ups and downs, but I've always tried to give my best," he says. "I've had to make sacrifices, but it's all been worth it."Chhetri's unwavering determination and passion for the game have earned him immense respect and admiration. Igor Stimac, the head coach of the Indian football team, believes that Chhetri has become a legend while still playing. "He's a true leader and an inspiration to all," Stimac says.As Chhetri prepares for his final international match, he is filled with a mix of emotions. "There's a bit of sadness, but also a lot of excitement," he says. "I'm looking forward to giving it my all and making it a memorable occasion."Chhetri's legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics. He has been a role model for aspiring footballers and has played a pivotal role in popularizing the sport in India. His unwavering commitment to the national team has inspired a generation of players and fans alike.As the curtain falls on Chhetri's international career, he leaves behind an indelible mark on Indian football. His contributions to the sport will continue to be celebrated and remembered for years to come.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, has etched his name in the annals of international football history by reaching the milestone of 150 appearances for his country. The talismanic striker achieved this remarkable feat during India's 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match against Afghanistan at Guwahati's Indira Gandhi International Stadium.Chhetri's illustrious career has been marked by numerous accolades and achievements. He is the third-highest active goalscorer in international football, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. With his goal against Afghanistan, Chhetri extended his unique record of scoring for India in his first, 25th, 50th, 75th, 100th, 125th, and 150th games.Despite Chhetri's historic goal, India suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Afghanistan. However, the match marked a significant milestone for the Indian team, as it ended their goalless run this year. India's last goal came against Kuwait in November 2023.Prior to the match, Chhetri was felicitated by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in recognition of his remarkable achievement. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, Assam Football Association secretary Sangrang Brahma, and AIFF's technical committee chairperson I.M. Vijayan presented souvenirs to the India skipper.Chhetri's journey to 150 international appearances began on June 12, 2005, when he made his debut in a friendly match against Pakistan. Since then, he has become an icon of Indian football, inspiring generations of young players.Chhetri's achievements are a testament to his dedication, hard work, and unwavering passion for the game. He has represented India with distinction on the international stage, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Indian footballers.