Football

Salvatore "Totò" Schillaci, the Italian striker who emerged as a symbol of exceeding expectations on soccer's grandest stage, passed away at the age of 59. Schillaci, who was hospitalized in Palermo for colon cancer treatment, succumbed to the illness on September 18, 2024.Schillaci's legacy is forever etched in the annals of Italian soccer history. During the 1990 World Cup, which Italy hosted, he emerged as a revelation, scoring six goals and earning the Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer. Prior to the World Cup, Schillaci had never scored for Italy, having only played once for the national team.His remarkable performance in the 1990 World Cup propelled him to stardom. He scored the winning goal in Italy's opening match against Austria, setting the tone for their memorable run to the semifinals. Schillaci's fearless spirit and unwavering determination inspired the Italian team and captivated the nation.In addition to the Golden Boot, Schillaci also won the Golden Ball award as the tournament's top player, ahead of legendary figures like Lothar Matthaus and Diego Maradona. His performances earned him widespread recognition and admiration, cementing his status as a soccer icon.Schillaci's career spanned several clubs, including Messina, Juventus, Inter Milan, and Jubilo Iwata in Japan. He was known for his exceptional finishing ability and his knack for scoring crucial goals.The Italian soccer federation expressed its profound sorrow at Schillaci's passing, announcing that a minute of silence would be observed before all games in the country for the rest of the week. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni paid tribute to Schillaci, acknowledging the joy and pride he brought to the nation.Schillaci's legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. He became a symbol of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that even those who may not be considered the most likely to succeed can achieve greatness through hard work and determination.

Sunil Chhetri's retirement from international football marks the end of an era for Indian football. The diminutive forward, who played for India for nearly 19 years, is the nation's all-time leading scorer with 94 goals in 151 appearances.Chhetri's longevity and consistency are remarkable. He made his international debut in 2005, when Indian football was still a niche sport. Over the years, he became a household name, leading the national team to numerous victories and inspiring a generation of young players.Chhetri's greatness lies not only in his goal-scoring prowess but also in his leadership and unwavering commitment to the team. He was the captain for 12 years, carrying the nation's hopes on his shoulders. His ability to motivate and inspire his teammates was instrumental in India's success.Despite his individual brilliance, Chhetri always put the team first. He was a selfless player who was willing to sacrifice his own glory for the greater good. His humility and dedication made him a role model for both his teammates and fans.Off the field, Chhetri was a fitness fanatic. He worked tirelessly to maintain his peak physical condition, even as he approached the twilight of his career. His relentless pursuit of excellence inspired his teammates to push themselves harder.Chhetri's retirement leaves a void in Indian football. He was not only a great player but also a symbol of hope and inspiration for the nation. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Indian footballers.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, bid farewell to international football with a tearful farewell at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The 39-year-old talisman, who has been a beacon of hope for Indian football for nearly two decades, played his final match for the Blue Tigers against Kuwait in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.Despite the match ending in a goalless draw, the stadium erupted in a standing ovation as Chhetri walked off the pitch for the last time. His teammates formed a guard of honor, a fitting tribute to the man who has captained India with distinction for many years.In an emotional speech, Chhetri thanked everyone who had been a part of his glorious journey. "The ones who have watched in videos, the ones who have taken autographs, the ones... the old-time supporters, thank you everyone. These 19 years would not have been possible without each and everyone of you and I genuinely mean it," he said.Chhetri, who has played a record 151 matches for India and scored a record 94 goals, is widely regarded as one of the greatest Indian footballers of all time. He has led India to numerous victories, including the Nehru Cup in 2007, 2009, and 2012, and the SAFF Championship in 2011, 2015, 2021, and 2023.His most memorable achievement came in the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, where he scored a hat-trick in the final to help India qualify for its first AFC Asian Cup in 27 years.Chhetri's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian football. He has been an inspiration to countless young players and has played a pivotal role in raising the profile of the sport in India. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian football captain, has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to an illustrious career spanning over two decades. Chhetri's 150 appearances for India were marked by exceptional skill, leadership, and an unwavering passion for the game.Throughout his career, Chhetri's goals were not merely statistics but thunderbolts that ignited a nation's spirit. His 94 international goals propelled India to greater heights, inspiring young players and captivating fans across the country.Chhetri's retirement has sent shockwaves through the Indian football community. For Tejas, a 15-year-old Bengaluru FC supporter, Chhetri was more than just a player; he was a role model who instilled in him a love for the game. "Seeing him play gives me motivation to be better," Tejas said. "My heart broke when I heard of his retirement."Amruth Kiranji, head coach of the academy at South United Football Club, praised Chhetri's longevity and fitness. At 40 years of age, Chhetri's unwavering dedication to the sport is a testament to his exceptional physical and mental strength.Chhetri's impact extended beyond the national team. As a key player for Bengaluru FC, he led the club to three major titles, including the I-League and Indian Super League. His most memorable performance for BFC came in the AFC Cup semifinal against Johor Darul Ta'zim, where he scored a brace to secure a historic victory for the Indian club.As Chhetri's career comes to a close, the question arises: who will fill the void he leaves behind? Anup Menon, a BFC season-pass holder, believes it will be a long and challenging task. "There is a huge void to fill," Menon said. "After Chhetri, I do not see anyone being that recognizable a face."Despite Chhetri's remarkable achievements, India remains outside the top 100 in FIFA rankings and has never qualified for the World Cup. Pranav Trehan, CEO of SUFC, emphasizes the need for more players of Chhetri's caliber to elevate Indian football to new heights. "In order for football to grow in this nation, we would need at least 20 more Chhetris in our squad," Trehan said.As Sunil Chhetri bids farewell to international football, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of Indian footballers. His unwavering determination, exceptional skill, and love for the game have left an indelible mark on the sport in India.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, has announced his retirement from international football, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. With a career spanning 19 years, Chhetri has etched his name in the annals of Indian football history as one of its most prolific and decorated players.Chhetri's journey began in 2002 with Mohun Bagan, where he honed his skills and rose to prominence. His exceptional talent and unwavering determination earned him a call-up to the national team in 2005, marking the beginning of an illustrious international career.As the captain of the Indian team, Chhetri led by example, inspiring his teammates and captivating fans with his exceptional skills and unwavering spirit. He guided India to numerous victories, including the 2007, 2009, and 2012 Nehru Cup, as well as the 2011, 2015, 2021, and 2023 SAFF Championship.Chhetri's most significant achievement came in 2008 when he led India to victory in the AFC Challenge Cup, securing the country's first qualification for the AFC Asian Cup in 27 years. His contributions to Indian football were recognized with the Arjuna Award in 2011, the Padma Shri in 2019, and the Khel Ratna Award in 2021, India's highest sporting honor.Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Chhetri is known for his humility, hard work, and dedication. He has always strived to be a role model for aspiring footballers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and sportsmanship.As Chhetri prepares to bid farewell to international football, he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. His unwavering determination, exceptional skills, and infectious enthusiasm have made him a true icon of Indian football.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, has bid farewell to international football after a remarkable career spanning two decades. The 39-year-old forward announced his retirement through a heartfelt video on social media, stating that India's upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait on June 6 will be his final match.Chhetri's journey began in 2002 with Mohun Bagan, and his exceptional talent quickly propelled him to international recognition. He has represented India in 150 matches, scoring an astonishing 94 goals, making him the third-highest active international goal-scorer behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.Chhetri's international exploits include victories in the Nehru Cup (2007, 2009, 2012) and the SAFF Championship (2011, 2015, 2021). His contribution to India's 2008 AFC Challenge Cup win secured their first AFC Asian Cup appearance in 27 years.Beyond his international success, Chhetri has also left an indelible mark on Indian club football. He has lifted trophies with prestigious clubs like East Bengal, Dempo, Mumbai City FC, and Bengaluru FC, where he truly flourished, winning the I-League (2014, 2016), ISL (2019), and Super Cup (2018).Chhetri's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian football. His dedication, passion, and unwavering spirit have inspired generations of players and fans alike. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and motivate aspiring footballers for years to come.