The Indian skipper is just two goals behind Lionel Messi.
Indian skipper Sunil Chhetri, after his goal against Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifier has drawn level with Ferenc Puskas on international goals. The legendary Ferenc Puskas scored 84 goals in 85 appearances for Hungary. Sunil Chhetri meanwhile, has turned out to be India’s all-time top scorer in international football, with the same number of goals as Puskas.
Sunil Chhetri’s AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign
The 37-year-old has scored in every AFC Asian Cup Qualifier. His demolition started against Cambodia, when he netted from the spot. In the next encounter, against Afghanistan, his mind-boggling free-kick reminded the audience of Cristiano Ronaldo’s free-kick against Spain at the FIFA World Cup 2018. At 37, Chhetri is portraying his prowess and proving everyday why the country still lacks his replacement.
A few days ago, on 13th June, Sunil Chhetri completed 17 years in his trade for the nation. Back in 2005, he made his international debut against Pakistan.
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Other competitors
The Indian skipper now has four competitors in his way to reach the top spot. Lionel Messi is just two goals ahead of Chhetri. Two footballers, who have retired, Mokhtar Dahari of Malaysia and Ali Daei of Iran have 89 and 109 goals, respectively.
Cristiano Ronaldo is currently leading the charts with 117 goals. Keeping in mind the number of games the national team plays in a year, it is tough to predict if Sunil Chhetri will ever be able to surpass Messi and Ronaldo. As it is, the two players will be playing in the FIFA World Cup later this year. But, his progress is certainly something which is making every Indian football-lover proud!
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Sunil is doing fine. May he go on and on.