If not for your support, this trophy wouldn't have been here, says an emotional Sunil Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri posted a video appreciating the fans.

On Thursday, Sunil Chhetri, the esteemed captain of the Indian football team, took to his social media accounts to express his profound gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support throughout the exhilarating SAFF Championship 2023.

Chhetri, known for his remarkable skills and leadership on the field, acknowledged the role played by the fans in motivating the team to victory. His heartfelt appreciation post not only celebrated the triumph but also highlighted the indomitable spirit of the Indian team and the unbreakable bond between the players and their supporters.

The atmosphere at the Sree Kanterva Stadium was electric, with fans showing their unbridled joy by chanting the names of all the players and passionately singing the patriotic anthem "Vande Mataram".

Chhetri, in particular, received an outpouring of appreciation both at the stadium and on social media platforms, along with accolades for the entire national team.

Chhetri's gratitude was extended to the fans who had shown immense support throughout the tournament. In an emotional message, he addressed the crowd, saying, "Bangalore, you guys were special, man. Generally, I say this all the time and sometimes I'm biased, but Pritam (Kotal) da, Subashish (Bose), Rahul Bheke, Anirudh Thapa, Nikhil Poojary, Anwar (Ali), Akash (Mishra), they all came and they all spoke to me about this, that they felt something different this time in Bangalore. You guys were outstanding."

He went on to acknowledge the different fan groups who had rallied behind the team, including the West Block Blues, the East Upper, and lower stands, the North Stand, the South Stand, the Manjappada, the Mariners, the Highlander Brigade, and the East Bengal Ultras. Chhetri attributed the team's success to the collective support and stated, "I’m just telling you facts. I’m not trying to praise you, I'm not trying to be modest. I’m just telling you a fact. If you guys weren't there and if not for the way you guys came and supported us, this trophy wouldn't be here."

Chhetri continued to express his appreciation, emphasizing the importance of the fans in their journey. He said, "I hope you understand how important you guys are. We are going to win some games and then we are going to lose some, but just to know that we are all in this together gives us a lot of hope. And one thing I can tell you about this team is (that) we fight. No matter what, we fight. No matter where we are playing, we fight. And no matter who we are playing with, we fight. We always do that."

In his closing remarks, Chhetri thanked the supporters from different clubs and reiterated their shared vision for success. He acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead but remained confident, stating, "I know where we have to reach is far and it is going to be difficult, but we will enjoy it together."

In his appreciation post, Sunil Chhetri not only expressed his gratitude to the fans but also emphasized the collective journey that lies ahead for Indian football. He acknowledged the challenges that await the team but assured the fans that they would face them together. Quoting Chhetri, he stated, "So, this is me, on behalf of the whole team telling you guys, the whole of Bangalore, and the supporters from different clubs, thank you so much. And I know where we have to reach is far and it is going to be difficult, but we will enjoy it together."

Chhetri's message also sheds light on the relentless fighting spirit embodied by the Indian football team. He emphasized their determination and resilience, stating, "No matter what, we fight. No matter where we are playing, we fight. And no matter who we are playing with, we fight. We always do that."

The captain's words resonated with fans who have witnessed the team's unwavering dedication to the sport. Chhetri's message highlighted the team's unwavering commitment, not only to winning matches but also to inspiring others with their tenacity and never-give-up attitude.

The captain further emphasized the fans' significance, stating, "I hope you understand how important you guys are. We are going to win some games and then we are going to lose some, but just to know that we are all in this together gives us a lot of hope."