Today: 6 May 2025
6 June 2024
2 mins read

‘It’s Not About Me’

Despite his age, Chhetri’s resolve remains unshaken, and he is firm in his decision to retire…reports Asian Lite News

Kolkata, June 5 (IANS) As India’s football icon Sunil Chhetri gears up for his final international match, he is determined to shift the spotlight from his retirement to the team’s crucial FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait. A victory on Thursday will almost secure India’s place in the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, bringing them a step closer to the 2026 finals in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Chhetri, who announced in May that the second-leg match against Kuwait would mark the end of his illustrious 19-year international career, emphasised the importance of the team’s performance over his farewell.

“It’s not about me and my last match. I don’t want to address it again and again. We really want to win this game. This is not going to be easy, but we are ready. We will have tremendous support,” Chhetri said at the press conference.

At 39, Chhetri’s focus remains firmly on the team’s success. He shared his immediate post-retirement plans, highlighting his continued commitment to Indian football. “If we win tomorrow, we almost qualify. Five top games home and away, I am going to wear nice suits and watch the match wherever the team travels,” he revealed.

“Every day I talk to the boys, I keep telling them about this dream. The longer camp helps because we come from different mentalities. It gives you much more time to work on details.”

Despite his age, Chhetri’s resolve remains unshaken, and he is firm in his decision to retire. “Suits are made and I am going to watch the boys play. I have thought about it a lot. I had a great ride all these 19 years. I will go as a fan and support the team wherever the team goes,” he said.

The match against Kuwait is critical, especially following India’s surprising 1-2 loss to lower-ranked Afghanistan in a home-leg tie in Guwahati in March. This defeat was widely criticized by fans and pundits, adding pressure to the upcoming game.

The Indian team head coach Igor Stimac acknowledged the challenge but expressed confidence in the team’s preparation. “We need to take care of these players, they don’t have their best striker. We are also without Sandesh (Jhingan). They impressed me with their last performance against Qatar, they raised their game.

He continued, “But I’m in absolute peace with the way our preparation has gone. It’s only a game of football and we should enjoy it. The result is always in god’s hands.”

Previous Story

Afridi Dubs India-Pak T20 as Super Bowl

Next Story

‘Modi 3.0 to Maintain Policies Amid Hurdles’

Latest from India News

India Rises, Africa Watches 

While struggling economies in Africa engulf themselves in ideological battles and take sides in the tariff battles, nations like India are placing their national interest first and navigating Global Trade challenges in

WAVES 2025: Jaishankar Advocates Cultural Pluralism

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a powerful address at the WAVES 2025 Global Media Dialogue, highlighting the significance of cultural pluralism in shaping global change. Speaking on the second day of

Bumrah Continues Test Reign 

With a new career-best rating of 705 points, Muzarabani became only the second Zimbabwean bowler in history to breach the 700-point mark in Test cricket…reports Aisan Lite News Zimbabwe’s historic three-wicket win

Iran Calls on India to Break Sanctions Barrier 

Calls grow louder from Iran’s industry leaders for India and international bodies to mediate financial and shipping barriers imposed by Western sanctions.  Top Iranian manufacturers are appealing to India and global organisations
Go toTop

Don't Miss

INTERVIEW: Nirupama Rao

Nirupama Rao is a career diplomat who served as India’s

UAE Buzzes with Preparations for PM Modi’s Visit

During his visit to the UAE, PM Modi will address