India’s Amazing 3-0 Victory! Chhetri's Back and Better Than Ever
Okay, so you guys won’t believe this! India absolutely *thumped* the Maldives 3-0 in a friendly match in Shillong. It was an incredible game, and honestly, it felt like a dream. Especially with Sunil Chhetri’s return from retirement! Remember, he announced he was hanging up his boots last June? Well, 16 months of not winning ended in a blaze of glory thanks to this guy.
Headers All Around!
India’s aerial game was just insane. I mean, seriously, we were dominating the skies. Rahul Bheke got us started with a rocket of a header from a Brandon Fernandes corner – 34th minute, pure magic. Then Liston Colaco scored his first international goal – another header! – at the 66th minute. And get this… the legend himself, Sunil Chhetri, at 40 years young, scored the third with a gorgeous glancing header at the 77th minute. Three goals from headers! You'd think we were practicing these set-pieces for months, huh?
Chhetri's Epic Comeback
But let's talk about Chhetri. The man's a legend! After retiring, everyone had questions. Was he still got it? Could he keep up? He totally silenced all the doubters, making his comeback not just a comeback but an absolute statement. This 95th international goal cemented his place as the fourth highest international goalscorer in the world. Honestly, who saw *that* coming after retirement?
More Than Just a Friendly
This win was huge. It wasn't just another friendly; it was a massive morale booster before India's crucial AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh. It was the perfect warm-up, a celebration of Chhetri's incredible career, and a sign of what’s to come under new coach Manolo Marquez. Things are looking bright, guys.
What’s Next for Team India?
With this massive win under their belts and a ton of confidence, India’s ready to take on Bangladesh. The team's looking stronger than ever, with that impressive aerial game and their iconic captain back in action. I'm buzzing, honestly! It's going to be an exciting match, that’s for sure.
