With India’s 3-0 victory over the Maldives, Sunil Chhetri burst into tears as he made his international comeback, playing a key role in a leading display of his earlier excellence. The return of India’s greatest football legend was just as significant as the team’s 3-0 victory over the Maldives in an international friendly played on March 19 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. The focus was on Chhetri’s return as captain after he announced his retirement from international football last June, and the seasoned striker did what he does best—find the back of the net.
India put up a strong fight from the first whistle, creating early opportunities but finding it difficult to put the finishing touch on them. In open play, the Blue Tigers lacked clinical precision even though they dominated control. However, from the beginning, it was clear that set pieces created a threat. India took a well-earned lead in the 35th minute when Rahul Bheke headed in a well-delivered corner after rising above the Maldives defense. India came out stronger after halftime. The Blue Tigers doubled their lead in the 66th minute as Chhetri’s impact increased.
Once more, Colaco’s brilliant cross to reward his constant attacking efforts was the game-winning set-piece. Ten minutes later, the moment that everyone had been expecting finally arrived. Colaco, who had been excellent throughout the evening, gave Chhetri a precise assist. The Maldives goalkeeper missed a glanced header after the captain’s perfectly timed run. Chhetri made a respectable comeback to the national team by scoring his 95th goal for India in his 152nd international match.
