Sunil Chhetri's Comeback: India Captain Starts vs Maldives:

New Delhi: Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri made a dramatic return to international football on Wednesday, leading India against the Maldives in a friendly match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.

The 40-year-old striker, who announced his retirement last year, surprised fans by reversing his decision earlier this month. New head coach Manolo Marquez wasted no time in recalling him, handing him the captain’s armband as India gears up for an important phase in its football journey.

Why Did Chhetri Return?

Last international match: June 2024 vs. Kuwait (World Cup qualifier)
Reason for comeback: India's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup + Chhetri’s red-hot ISL form
2024-25 ISL stats: 12 goals in 24 matches (second-highest scorer in ISL, top Indian scorer)

His impressive performances in domestic football proved he still had plenty to offer, making his return a massive boost for Indian football as the team now shifts focus to the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

Historic First Match for India in Shillong

The friendly against Maldives was not only Chhetri’s comeback game but also India’s first-ever match in Shillong.

The football-loving hill town had long been waiting to host the national team, and the occasion became even more special with Chhetri leading India once again.

What This Means for Indian Football

For head coach Manolo Marquez, this match was a vital opportunity to assess his squad ahead of his first competitive fixture as India’s manager.

India’s Next Match: ???????? vs. Bangladesh – March 25, 2025 (Asian Cup Qualifier)

Chhetri’s return adds:
Experience & leadership to a young squad
Goal-scoring ability that India has lacked in recent months
A morale boost as India looks to rebuild for 2027 Asian Cup qualification

Marquez on Playing in Shillong

"I remember watching the Durand Cup in Shillong last year and thinking it would be great if one day the national team could play here," Marquez said.

Now, with Chhetri back at the helm, India aims to capitalize on his leadership and prepare for the crucial upcoming fixtures in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.

Chhetri’s return to international football is nothing short of iconic, and fans will be eager to see if he can inspire India once again.