The match, which saw India settle for a goalless draw against Kuwait, was overshadowed by the emotional resonance of Chhetri’s departure. The FIFA World Cup 2026 Asia qualifier held in front of a tense crowd had a much bigger story to tell—one of legacy, emotion, and national pride.
India’s captain Sunil Chhetri, the stalwart of Indian football, bowed out in a fashion that left fans and teammates grappling with a whirlwind of sentiments. As the final whistle blew, Chhetri’s reaction encapsulated the essence of his illustrious career—a blend of passion, determination, and, above all, deep love for the game and his country. With tears barely held back, he addressed the crowd and his teammates, making it clear that his journey on the field had reached its end but his impact would linger long thereafter.
“Sobai bhalo thakben, sobai khusi thakben!” were the parting words of India’s iconic captain. Translated from Bengali, they mean “Everyone stay well, everyone stay happy!”. These words echoed through the stands, laden with emotional heft, conveying the magnitude of the moment. Chhetri’s voice quivered with restrained sentimentality as he wrestled with his emotions while delivering his poignant farewell speech.
For avid followers of Indian football, Sunil Chhetri’s name is synonymous with dedication and performance. Over the years, he has become the beacon of hope and a symbol of perseverance for the Indian football fraternity. His career, spanning nearly two decades, has witnessed him guiding the national team through numerous ups and downs. With a record number of goals and appearances for India, Chhetri’s contribution to football goes beyond numbers; it’s embedded in the very fabric of the sport in the country.
The match against Kuwait, although ending in a draw, seemed almost secondary in light of Chhetri’s farewell. The 90 minutes of play saw few noteworthy moments, but the event is etched into memory as the day Indian football bid farewell to its most iconic player. As the match progressed, fans could sense the gravity of the occasion. The anticipation of the final whistle was not for the scoreline but for the moment when Chhetri would finally hang up his boots.
Teammates, who have looked up to Chhetri both on and off the field, found themselves overwhelmed. Defender Sandesh Jhingan commented, “It’s not just losing a captain; it’s losing a mentor and a friend. Sunil has taught us so much not just about football but about life. His absence on the field will be felt profoundly, but his lessons will remain with us always.” Jhingan’s sentiment was reflected across the team, with players embracing Chhetri as he made his final walk off the pitch.
Ravi Kumar, one of the team’s younger members, shared an anecdote about his first interaction with Chhetri, “I was barely out of my teens and joining the national camp for the first time.
. I was nervous, underconfident, and awe-struck seeing Chhetri. But he made me feel at home within minutes. Told me to focus on my game and not be afraid of making mistakes. I owe a lot of my current confidence to those initial moments with him.”
Sunil Chhetri’s influence extends beyond his teammates. Coach Igor Štimac, expressing his sentiments, stated, “Working with Sunil has been nothing short of a privilege. His work ethic, his commitment, and his tactical understanding have made my job easier. He has been the spine of this team and filling the void he leaves behind is an insurmountable task. However, Sunil’s legacy will drive this team to aspire for greater heights.”
Fans across the nation took to social media, with tributes pouring in from every corner. Hashtags like #ThankYouChhetri and #LegendUnparalleled trended for hours. From emotional posts recounting his greatest goals to video montages celebrating his career, Indian football lovers left no stone unturned in bidding adieu to their beloved captain.
Acknowledging his fans, Chhetri said in his speech, “Your love and support have been my strength. Whether in victory or defeat, you stood by us. I am eternally grateful for this unwavering support.” These words resonated with the millions who have followed his journey and cheered for him tirelessly.
As India moves forward in its footballing journey, Sunil Chhetri’s influence will undoubtedly remain a guiding light. The match against Kuwait will be remembered not for its goalless score, but as the event that marked the end of an era. Sunil Chhetri leaves behind a legacy that transcends goals and appearances; he leaves behind a spirit, a belief, and an undying love for football that will inspire generations to come.
In the annals of Indian football, the chapter of Sunil Chhetri will forever be etched in golden letters. His departure is not just a goodbye; it’s a celebration of the monumental contributions he made to Indian football. As the echoes of “Sobai bhalo thakben, sobai khusi thakben!” fade away, India stands united in gratitude and admiration for its legendary captain, Sunil Chhetri.
