NEW DELHI: The football world eagerly anticipates June 6, a momentous yet sad day when Sunil Chhetri, a legendary figure in the sport, will make his final appearance for the Blue Tigers against Kuwait at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
Chhetri's decision to retire was shared in a heartfelt nine-minute video on social media platforms on May 16, stirring emotions among fans and fellow players alike.
As the countdown to this historic match begins, the football community reflects on Chhetri's remarkable career and the indelible mark he has left on Indian football. His contributions both on and off the field have inspired generations of players and have elevated the status of the sport in the country.
Chhetri took to Instagram to share his thoughts and mindset heading into his final game. “These last few days, I’ve been caught in a bit of a dilemma. Now that there’s a number to my days with the national team, what’s the right route to take - do I count every day, every training session? Or do I simply turn up without the thought of how this is coming to an end?” read the post by the Indian skipper.
“Over time, I seemed to have found middle ground. They say, count your blessings. And every single day I get to be on the pitch is a blessing that I’ve never taken for granted. So I’ve decided to count my sessions, but with a deep sense of gratitude. There’s no apprehension. Instead, there’s a feeling of being indebted to the sport, to my team, that I get to do this.
If I could, I would capture this feeling in a box. Or instead, I’ll take it to my next training session,” it further added.
India's national team is set to face Kuwait in a crucial match that will determine their progress in the FIFA WC Qualifiers. The team's all-time top scorer will be playing his final game for the country, hoping to conclude his remarkable international career with a victory.
A win against Kuwait is essential for India, as they will face a formidable opponent in Qatar during their last game of the stage on June 11.
In preparation for these two pivotal matches, the Blue Tigers are currently undergoing training in Bhubaneswar. The team is focused on honing their skills and strategies to ensure optimal performance on the field.
The upcoming game will be a poignant moment for the nation, as they bid farewell to a player who has been a loyal servant to Indian football for nearly two decades.
His impact on the sport has been immense, garnering a dedicated fan base that spans the entire country. As India prepares to honour their legendary player, emotions will undoubtedly run high during this significant encounter.
