Football

Sunil Chhetri, India's legendary football captain, bid farewell to international football on June 6, 2023, in a tearful farewell match against Kuwait. The match, a World Cup qualifier, ended in a 0-0 draw, but the result was overshadowed by the outpouring of emotion for Chhetri.Nearly 59,000 fans packed the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata to witness Chhetri's final appearance for India. The atmosphere was electric, with fans chanting, waving banners, and dancing in the stands. Chhetri, known for his diminutive stature and relentless determination, played with his usual passion and skill, but was unable to find the winning goal.Chhetri's international career spanned nearly two decades, during which he scored 94 goals for India. This tally places him among the world's all-time leading scorers, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Iran's retired Ali Daei, and Lionel Messi. Chhetri's goals helped India qualify for the Asian Cup for the first time in 27 years in 2011.Off the field, Chhetri is a role model for aspiring footballers in India. His dedication to the sport and his humble demeanor have earned him widespread admiration. India's coach, Igor Stimac, described Chhetri as "an inspiration to everyone, absolutely committed to the Indian jersey."Chhetri's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian football. He has been the face of the sport in the country for many years, and his absence will be felt deeply. However, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.

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

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.

James Maddison's hopes of representing England at Euro 2024 have been dashed after he was reportedly omitted from Gareth Southgate's final 26-man squad. The Tottenham attacking midfielder had been part of Southgate's 33-man training group but has failed to make the cut for the tournament in Germany, according to British media outlets BBC and Sky Sports.Maddison's exclusion comes as a surprise given his impressive start to the Premier League season with Spurs. However, his form has dipped in recent months, and he faces stiff competition for places in England's star-studded attacking lineup.The 27-year-old has won seven caps for his country but has struggled to establish himself as a regular in Southgate's plans. With England boasting a wealth of attacking options, Maddison has found it difficult to break into the starting XI.Maddison's omission from the squad is a blow to his personal ambitions and to Tottenham, who were hoping to see their player represent England at a major tournament. However, Southgate's decision is ultimately based on his assessment of the players who give England the best chance of success at Euro 2024.England face Iceland in their final pre-tournament friendly at Wembley on Friday before Southgate announces his final 26-man selection on Saturday. The Three Lions are among the favorites for the tournament and will be hoping to make a deep run in Germany.

England, the Three Lions, are poised to make a bold statement at Euro 2024 as they set their sights on capturing their first major trophy since 1966. Led by manager Gareth Southgate, England will face Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia in Group C, aiming to navigate the group stage and advance deep into the tournament.Despite recent near misses, including a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final, England remains a formidable force. Boasting a squad brimming with world-class talent, including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden, they are considered one of the favorites alongside France and hosts Germany.Southgate, who is entering what could be his final tournament in charge, is embracing the expectations and believes England has the potential to triumph in Berlin on July 14. "Everybody is waiting for that headline ('We can win the Euros')," he said. "There is no doubt what's possible, they have gone close already."England's journey begins on June 16 in Gelsenkirchen against Serbia, who finished second in their qualifying group behind Hungary. Four days later, they will face Denmark in Frankfurt, a team that pushed them to the brink in a dramatic Euro 2020 semi-final. The group stage concludes on June 25 in Cologne against Slovenia, a team participating in a major tournament for the first time since 2010.Finishing top of Group C would be crucial for England's aspirations, as it would grant them a more favorable last-16 tie against a third-placed team from another group. However, a second-place finish could potentially set up a daunting clash against Germany.Denmark, with their impressive squad led by Christian Eriksen, will pose a significant challenge for England. Slovenia, despite being the underdogs, will be determined to make an impact in their first European Championship appearance in 24 years.Serbia, with Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic and AC Milan forward Luka Jovic in their ranks, will also be a threat. England's success will hinge on their ability to maintain focus, execute their game plan, and overcome the pressure that comes with being one of the tournament favorites.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary captain of the Indian men's football team, is preparing for his final outing with the national side. As he faces the media ahead of India's crucial match against Kuwait, emotions run high.Chhetri, who has scored a record 94 goals in 150 appearances for India, has been a talismanic figure for the team. His retirement announcement 20 days ago sent shockwaves through the footballing community."I have been fighting a small battle inside me all along," Chhetri confessed. "Please do not make it worse by asking again and again. We were done with the subject of retirement when I announced it."The focus now is on the match against Kuwait, which holds immense significance for India's World Cup qualification hopes. "The only thing that I want to focus on is the match against Kuwait," Chhetri emphasized. "We really need to win this game. Once we win it gives us a great chance to go to the third round (of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers), which we have never achieved before."Chhetri believes that a victory against Kuwait will open doors to greater opportunities. "If we win against Kuwait, we almost qualify to the third round," he said. "And once we qualify, we will be up against some top teams (of the continent). I keep telling the boys about this dream every day. Hopefully, everything will happen according to plan. If we qualify, I will be travelling to watch the matches as a fan."The Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata is expected to be packed with passionate fans cheering on the Indian team. Chhetri expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support. "We need to go out there with all our might, because the match is not going to be easy," he said. "It is going to be a big battle, but the good thing is that we are all ready. I am sure Kolkata will give us tremendous support as we fight it out on the ground."As Chhetri prepares to bid farewell to international football, he leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and achievement. His passion, determination, and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the future of Indian football.

Emotions will run high as the talismanic Sunil Chhetri leads India out one last time in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Kuwait in Kolkata on June 6. The 39-year-old Chhetri, who has dominated the national football landscape for 19 years, will hang his boots at the end of this match.Chhetri's goal is to propel his team into the next round of the World Cup qualifiers as a parting gift. The top two teams from each of the nine groups of four teams will advance to the third stage, which will determine FIFA's increased allocation of eight World Cup berths for Asia.While it may be a long shot for India to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America, a win over Kuwait would take the team into uncharted territory, where they would face the best of Asia in at least 10 matches. This would also translate into some quality friendly games.India currently occupies the second spot in Group A behind Qatar, with four points from four games. They are ahead of Afghanistan on goal difference and Kuwait, who have three points. A victory would put India firmly ahead of Afghanistan, who face Qatar in a tough fixture later on June 6.Chhetri has been a bonafide legend of Indian football, with 94 goals from 150 appearances and a dozen trophies in his cabinet. His last dance will be at the Salt Lake Stadium, where his professional football career took shape with Mohun Bagan in the early 2000s.India will be coming into this match with solid preparation. They have made some interesting additions in I-League forwards Edmund Lalrindika (Inter Kashi) and David Lalhlansanga (Mohammedan Sporting), who will be aiming to become the first players in five years to make national debuts from the second tier league.However, the defense will have to cope with the absence of Sandesh Jhingan, who has been sidelined due to an injury from the Asian Cup in January. It remains to be seen if the likes of Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, and Subhasish Bose will be able to compensate for his absence, especially the aerial strength he has provided over the years.Focus will also be on Lallianzuala Chhangte, who had a strong 2023-24 ISL season, scoring 10 goals and providing six assists for Mumbai City FC. He will look to carry this form against Kuwait, who will have the firepower of Hassan Al-Enezi in the defense.Kuwait will be coming to the game after routing Afghanistan 4-0, with their key forward duo of Shabaib Al Khaldi and Mohammed Daham scoring three goals between them. The duo will once again be a big threat to the Indians.

Italy's Euro 2024 preparations hit a snag as they were held to a goalless draw by Turkey in a lackluster friendly in Bologna. The Azzurri, who triumphed at the last Euros three years ago, struggled to create clear-cut chances against a resolute Turkish defense.The match was marred by an injury to Turkey's Ozan Kabak, who was stretchered off shortly before halftime with a knee injury that could potentially rule him out of the tournament. The Hoffenheim midfielder fell awkwardly in a challenge with Mateo Retegui and writhed in agony on the sidelines.Italy's best chance of the first half came in stoppage time when Baris Yilmaz sent a free header over the bar. Bryan Cristante also hit the post from a corner in the dying seconds of the half.The introduction of Andrea Cambiaso and Mattia Zaccagni after the break livened up Italy's attack, but they still lacked inspiration in the final third. Retegui miscued a bicycle kick from Pellegrini's cross just before the hour mark.Despite being the better team, Italy failed to find a breakthrough, leaving the 25,000 fans at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara disappointed.Turkey, managed by former Italy striker Vincenzo Montella, will play Poland in Warsaw on Monday in their final pre-Euro friendly. They take on Georgia in their first Group F match in Dortmund on June 18 before facing Portugal and the Czech Republic.Italy, meanwhile, have one more friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Empoli on Sunday before traveling to Germany for Euro 2024. They begin their campaign on June 15 against Albania in Group B, where they have also been drawn with Spain and Croatia.

Germany, the host nation of Euro 2024, is experiencing a resurgence of hope as the tournament opener against Scotland approaches. After a string of disappointing performances, including two consecutive World Cup group stage exits and a loss to England in the Euros in 2021, Germany endured a dismal 2023 with only three wins in 11 games. Many predicted an embarrassing early exit for the three-time Euros champions on home soil.However, the past four months have witnessed a remarkable turnaround. Despite a goalless draw against Ukraine in Nuremberg, Germany displayed a dominant second-half performance and created numerous chances. Coach Julian Nagelsmann emphasized the team's desire to win, even though the result was not ideal.Nagelsmann has made bold selections, including debutant striker Maximilian Beier and youngsters Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala, who have shown promise as a dangerous attacking combination. Other players, such as Chris Fuehrich and Maximilian Mittelstaedt, have also impressed, indicating that Nagelsmann has assembled a strong squad.The improvement on the pitch and the growing optimism off it have boosted Germany's confidence as they aim for a fourth Euros trophy, which would equal Spain's record. They face Greece in their final friendly on Friday before facing tougher tests in the group stages against Scotland, Hungary, and Switzerland.Nagelsmann's tenure began with just one win in his first four games, but he has since shaken up the squad and brought back Toni Kroos. Rather than relying solely on big names, he has selected players based on form, including several from Bayer Leverkusen and Stuttgart.Germany's convincing performances against France and the Netherlands in March have raised expectations. Nagelsmann believes the Ukraine match was "perfect" preparation for the group stage, while veteran Thomas Mueller remains confident despite the goalless draw.The German public has embraced the national team ahead of the tournament. The DFB's innovative approach to squad announcements has reached a wider audience, and fans have flocked to watch the team train. Nagelsmann acknowledges the "great support" and believes it will carry the team through the tournament.