India’s cherished football captain, Sunil Chhetri, has requested the media to desist from centering discussions around his upcoming retirement and instead focus on the Indian team’s critical FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait. The match, scheduled for Thursday, carries immense significance as a win will nearly secure India’s first-ever entry into the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set to take place in 2026 across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
During a recent practice session in Kolkata, Chhetri was visibly emotional as he addressed the press on Wednesday. The seasoned player, who announced last month that the second leg against Kuwait would mark the end of his 19-year illustrious international career, has been battling with the feelings attached to this landmark moment. Yet, his plea was clear: the spotlight needs to shine on the team’s looming encounter with Kuwait, and not on his personal journey.
“I think most of us have met already 20 days back and we have spoken about my last game. That’s done,” Chhetri asserted. “We are here only and only to speak about Kuwait and India and I’m trying really hard to not think about this game like this.” His tone, though decisive, bore traces of a heavy heart coming to terms with the close of a significant chapter.
Chhetri, addressing reporters, asked them to refrain from repeatedly questioning him about his retirement to allow him and his teammates the freedom to concentrate solely on the upcoming game. “I again request… it’s not about me and my last game, it’s about us and Kuwait. And inside me, I’m fighting a small battle; please don’t make it worse by asking ‘how are you feeling’, again and again,” he appealed.
Chhetri further revealed that the topic of his last match has not infiltrated the team’s dressing room conversations. “Only you guys who are putting this question… We don’t talk about it in the dressing room. We are still the same, we are still having fun.
. There is not a talk about the last game, we are done with it. We really need to win this game. Once we win this game, it gives us a great chance to go to the third round, which we have never done,” he explained.
The veteran also emphasized the magnitude of the match against Kuwait, acknowledging the formidable challenge that lies ahead. “So all our might, everything that we have is just pointed towards fighting it out, because one thing we know for sure, this is not going to be easy,” he stated. However, Chhetri took comfort in knowing that the match in Kolkata would be bolstered by the enthusiastic support of local fans. “And one thing we are very happy is that we are playing in Kolkata, we are going to have tremendous support. So it’s going to be a battle, and the good thing is we are all ready.”
Reporter queries on whether Chhetri might reconsider his retirement if India advances to the third round were met with a definitive answer. “No sir, the suits are made, I’m going to go and watch the boys play as a fan. I’m not somebody who just says something that comes on his mind, I might look like that but I think a lot and I’ve given it my thought. It’s been 19 years, I had a great ride, and this is it,” he affirmed, underscoring his firm decision.
Despite the emotional weight of the upcoming match, Chhetri’s professional focus underscores his leadership qualities. His long and distinguished career has not only been a journey of personal achievements but also of significant contributions to Indian football on the global stage. As the team gears up for its crucial game against Kuwait, the captain’s clarion call to focus on the collective goal rather than individual milestones resonates deeply.
The importance of the Thursday match is not lost on anyone. The stakes are high, and the Indian team’s potential progression to the third round would mark an unprecedented accomplishment in their football history. The sense of urgency and commitment in Chhetri’s words reflects the broader sentiment within the team. This is a moment that calls for unity, strategic focus, and collective effort.
As fans and followers of Indian football eagerly await the match, Chhetri’s request to the media and his evident dedication to the team’s success stand as a testament to his enduring legacy. Whether or not India secures a win against Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri’s name will forever be synonymous with passion, perseverance, and unparalleled dedication to the sport.
