Shillong, March 19 (Sports Desk)
Sunil Chhetri marked his return to international football with a bang, scoring the final goal in India’s dominant 3-0 victory over the Maldives in a friendly at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The match, India’s first win under new head coach Manolo Márquez, served as a perfect tune-up for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.
A Night of Goals and Milestones
India controlled the game from the opening whistle, with Chhetri nearly creating a goal in the second minute. The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when Rahul Bheke powered in a header from Brandon Fernandes’ corner, giving India a 1-0 lead at halftime.
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The second half saw Liston Colaco double the advantage in the 66th minute, heading in his first-ever goal for India after a relentless performance down the left flank. Then, in the 77th minute, Sunil Chhetri sealed the win, beating his marker to nod home Colaco’s cross—a triumphant moment in his comeback after retirement.
Chhetri’s Return Steals the Show
The night belonged to Chhetri, India’s all-time leading goal-scorer, whose presence lifted the team and thrilled the crowd. Despite a goalline clearance denying him earlier, his clinical finish showcased his enduring brilliance. India’s dominance was clear throughout, with Farukh Choudhary and Colaco also coming close to adding to the tally.
Looking Ahead
This convincing win sets the stage for India’s third-round AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh on March 25 at the same venue. With Márquez at the helm and Chhetri back in the fold, the Blue Tigers are brimming with confidence.
