The Indian National Football Team will compete against the Maldives in an international friendly at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, marking the return of Sunil Chhetri. This match is a preparatory step towards the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Bangladesh. India boasts a strong historical performance against the Maldives and this will be the first international game at the Shillong venue.
The Indian National Football Team is set to face the Maldives in an international friendly at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. The match, taking place on Wednesday, marks the return of veteran striker Sunil Chhetri, who had previously announced his retirement from international football. Coach Manolo Marquez’s call prompted Chhetri’s return as the team prepares for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Bangladesh.
Sunil Chhetri, holding the record as India’s all-time leading goal scorer, has made a remarkable return following a successful season in the Indian Super League 2024-25, where he scored 12 goals in 24 matches. With 94 goals in 151 caps for India, Chhetri aims to enhance his tally further. He is currently ranked fourth among the highest international goal scorers, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei.
The squad for the Indian National Team includes notable players such as Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Vishal Kaith, and several others, with Vishal Kaith likely starting as goalkeeper. Meanwhile, the Maldives will feature players like Hussain Shareef as their goalkeeper.
Historically, India holds an advantageous head-to-head record against the Maldives, and this match provides a prime opportunity for the Blue Tigers to extend their dominance. Additionally, this fixture serves as a significant event, being the first international match played in front of the enthusiastic Shillong crowd at this venue.
The match is crucial as it prepares the Indian team for their upcoming challenge against Bangladesh in the qualifiers, as they strive to secure a spot in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup scheduled in Saudi Arabia.
In conclusion, the upcoming friendly match between India and the Maldives at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong marks a significant occasion with Sunil Chhetri’s unexpected return to the national team. As they prepare for more crucial matches, India’s favorable head-to-head record instills confidence. The fixture also highlights the excitement of a new venue for international football in Shillong, making it a noteworthy event for players and fans alike.
Original Source: www.news18.com
