In a remarkable display of talent and skill, Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri has etched his name in the annals of international football history. Leading his team to a resounding victory in the opening match of the SAFF Championship against arch-rivals Pakistan, Chhetri’s sensational hat-trick not only secured a triumphant start for India but also propelled him to the prestigious position of the fourth-highest goal-scorer in international football.
Surpassing the record previously held by Malaysia’s Mokhtar Dahari, who boasted an impressive 89 goals, Chhetri’s remarkable goal tally now stands at a phenomenal 90. As he basks in this well-deserved achievement, Chhetri finds himself trailing only the illustrious trio of Argentina’s FIFA World Cup-winning legend Lionel Messi (103 goals), Iran’s retired star Ali Daei (109 goals), and the legendary Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo (123 goals) on the goal-scoring leaderboard.
Notably, among currently active players, Chhetri proudly claims the third-highest goal tally in international football, with only Messi and Ronaldo outshining him with their awe-inspiring goal-scoring records of 103 and 123 goals, respectively.
The Indian men’s football team, led by their indomitable captain Chhetri, left no stone unturned as they dominated their rivals on the field during the SAFF Championship clash with Pakistan. The match, held at Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium, witnessed Chhetri’s masterclass as he found the back of the net thrice, showcasing his exceptional prowess and leadership. Adding to India’s commanding performance, Udanta Singh Kumam joined the goal-scoring brigade, securing an 81st-minute goal to seal a resounding 4-0 victory.
This impressive win not only consolidated India’s supremacy over traditional rivals Pakistan but also propelled them to the top of the Group A points table in the SAFF Championship. With a superior goal difference over Kuwait, who defeated Nepal 3-1 earlier in the tournament opener, India now sets its sights on further triumphs.
Building on their recent success at the Intercontinental Cup 2023, where India emerged as champions, the national team arrived at the SAFF Championship brimming with confidence. Currently ranked 101st by FIFA, India displayed their attacking prowess from the start, swiftly capitalizing on Pakistan’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Taking advantage of a crucial error by Pakistan goalkeeper Saqib Hanif, who failed to clear the ball, Chhetri capitalized on the opportunity and scored within 10 minutes of the game’s commencement, granting India an early 1-0 lead. The relentless Indian team continued to pressure Pakistan’s defense, eventually earning a penalty for a handling offense. Chhetri confidently converted the penalty, extending India’s lead to a commanding 2-0 at halftime.
Maintaining their dominance in the second half, the Indian team relentlessly pursued another goal. While Pakistan posed a few threats, with Muhammed Sufyan hitting the crossbar in the 29th minute, India managed to retain their 2-0 advantage. A determined Chhetri, undeterred by Pakistan’s resilience, drew a penalty after being brought down in the box. Exhibiting his finesse, Chhetri expertly executed a delicate chip into the top left corner, securing his well-deserved hat trick and propelling India to a commanding 3-0 lead.
With victory all but assured, India’s relentless pursuit of goals paid off once again, as Udanta Singh capitalized on a well-placed cross from Anwar Ali, comfortably slotting the ball home to make it 4-0, maintaining possession and control, the Indian football team ensured the match ended on a high note.
Next up for India in Group A is a clash against Nepal on Saturday, where Chhetri and his teammates aim to continue their winning streak in this highly anticipated tournament.
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