India’s top goalscorer and former captain Sunil Chhetri is now back from retirement. India’s legend is coming to don the Indian jersey again to play AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Bangladesh on March 25. The 40-year-old striker had hung up his boots from international football last year after a 0-0 draw with Kuwait during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
Chhetri’s record for India
Sunil Chhetri is the highest goalscorer from India ever. With an impressive 94 goals, he ranks fourth in all-time men’s football scorers, following Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei. Despite retiring from international games, he has continued to shine in the Indian Super League for Bengaluru FC. This season, Chhetri has scored 12 goals and is the highest Indian scorer again in the League so far.
Earlier, when Chhetri took the decision to retire, he clarified that his retirement decision was not due to physical issues. “The retirement decision was not because of physical aspect; I am still fit, running, chasing, defending. The reason is to do with mental aspect,” Chhetri said.
India in AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers
India is grouped with Bangladesh, Hong Kong (China), and Singapore for the qualifiers, starting later this month at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. After a disappointing last edition, where India was knocked out in the group stage without winning a single game, Chhetri’s return is seen as a hopeful boost as India lacks a qualified striker. His usage as a full-time player or as a substitute will depend on his coach.
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