It has been 6 years since, Indian football captain, Sunil Chhetri, made an emotional plea to fans to come out and support the Indian national team. Fast forward to Chhetri’s final game at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, and the response was overwhelming. A record-breaking 58,921 fans turned up to bid farewell to their hero, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
58,921 fans fill VYBK for Sunil Chhetri
As Sunil Chhetri took to the field for his final match at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium, emotions ran high. The legendary striker, who had been the face of Indian football for nearly two decades, announced his retirement, leaving fans in a reflective mood who turned in numbers to watch the captain spray his magic for one last time.
The match against Kuwait marked the end of an era, with Chhetri’s profound impact on Indian football evident through his record-breaking 94 international goals and 150 caps.
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In 2018, after scoring a hat-trick in a sparsely attended match against Chinese Taipei, he posted a heartfelt video on social media, urging fans to fill the stands for the remaining games of the Intercontinental Cup. Chhetri’s passionate message resonated deeply with the nation, as he implored, “To all of you, who are not football fans… please come and watch us. Two reasons: it is the best game in the world and we play for our country” His plea was amplified by Indian cricket stars like Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar, who also called on fans to show their support.
This massive turnout highlighted the deep respect and admiration that Indian football fans have for Chhetri. The stadium, filled to the brim, was a testament to Chhetri’s impact on Indian football and the love he had inspired over his illustrious career. The fans’ presence not only celebrated Chhetri’s achievements but also signified a hopeful future for Indian football, inspired by the legacy he leaves behind.
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