Cape Verde, a small island nation with a population under 600,000, is on the brink of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup — potentially becoming the second smallest country ever to reach the global stage. Their secret? A smart, focused model of developing local talent while strategically recruiting foreign-born players with Cape Verdean roots.

Can India, a nation of 1.4 billion: adopt lessons from Cape Verde’s rise to build a more competitive national football program? We break down Cape Verde’s strategy and explore whether it can be replicated in India’s football ecosystem.

How Cape Verde Built Their Football Empire: Can India Learn?

<p>It will be the end of an era in Indian football after legendary player and captain Sunil Chhetri plays his last game against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026&nbsp;qualifier on June 6.&nbsp;Chhetri, on Thursday (May 16), took to the microblogging site X to announce&nbsp;his&nbsp;retirement from the game.&nbsp;After his decision, fans paid&nbsp;tribute to him&nbsp;by hailing&nbsp;his impact on Indian football.&nbsp;Here are all the reactions on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I'd like to say something... <a href="https://t.co/xwXbDi95WV">pic.twitter.com/xwXbDi95WV</a></p>
— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11/status/1790953336901976541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sunil Chhetri announce retirement<br />
<br />
- Great Career<br />
- Role Model<br />
- Inspiration<br />
<br />
Happy Retirement Legend <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SunilChhetri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SunilChhetri</a> <a href="https://t.co/i7Sl1dS6PN">pic.twitter.com/i7Sl1dS6PN</a></p>
— Ash (@Ashsay_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ashsay_/status/1790973106154275093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One Sun 🌞<br />
One Moon 🌙<br />
One Sunil Chhetri 🐐<br />
<br />
Happy Retirement Legend :)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SunilChhetri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SunilChhetri</a> <a href="https://t.co/FOyfTQJw9U">pic.twitter.com/FOyfTQJw9U</a></p>
— Sir BoiesX (@BoiesX45) <a href="https://twitter.com/BoiesX45/status/1790969875135136013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Your legacy will inspire generations to come.💙</p>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1790970721185017856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Forever in your debt. 🫡<br />
It's been an honour, captain. 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhetriForever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhetriForever</a></p>
— Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) <a href="https://twitter.com/bengalurufc/status/1790966169085661612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We'll miss you, Captain. Leader. Legend💙 🇮🇳</p>
— Premier League India (@PLforIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PLforIndia/status/1790966156548837823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Retirement Captain Leader Legend ❤️❤️<br />
<br />
You have been an inspiration for the whole generation. THANK YOU for everything.</p>
— The Analyzer (News Updates🗞️) (@Indian_Analyzer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indian_Analyzer/status/1790970024770896334?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy retirement legend 🐐 , thank you for making our chilhood memorable ❤️🙏</p>
— Saksham Garg (@sakshamgarg45) <a href="https://twitter.com/sakshamgarg45/status/1790960866919350683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The man who ignited the dreams of millions, the man who shouldered a nation beyond its capabilities, and the man who bows out after etching a mark of his own! 🇮🇳🐐<br />
<br />
It's time for 𝘂𝘀 to shoulder 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝙊𝙉𝙀 𝙇𝘼𝙎𝙏 𝙏𝙄𝙈𝙀! 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SunilChhetri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SunilChhetri</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlueTigers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlueTigers</a> <a href="https://t.co/gXhc7ZNV6U">pic.twitter.com/gXhc7ZNV6U</a></p>
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague/status/1790986102834074111?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Your contribution to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> on the international stage will be etched in gold, Sunil! 🇮🇳<br />
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Thank you for all the memories! 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalRetirement?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalRetirement</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z1xLYUX2mD">pic.twitter.com/Z1xLYUX2mD</a></p>
— East Bengal FC (@eastbengal_fc) <a href="https://twitter.com/eastbengal_fc/status/1790985147585827210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"“When I did decide that this is going to be my last game, I told my family about it. Dad was normal. He was relieved, happy, everything. It was my wife, strangely. I told her. ‘You always used to bug me that there are too many games, there’s too much of pressure. Now I am telling you that I’m not going to play for my country anymore after this game.’ Even they couldn’t tell me why there were tears. It’s not that I was feeling tired, not that I was feeling this or that. When the instinct came that this should be my last game, I thought about it a lot, eventually I came to this decision," Chhetri&nbsp;said in a video posted on his X handle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chhetri will for&nbsp;one last time take the field against Kuwait on June 6 where he could add to his already impressive 94 international goals. He is currently the third highest active goal-scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (106). He remains the fourth-highest all-time top scorer in men's international football after Ronaldo, Ali Daei (109) and Messi. Chhetri will also retire as the second-highest goal-scorer from Asia, underling his legendary status.&nbsp;</p>


It will be the end of an era in Indian football after legendary player and captain Sunil Chhetri plays his last game against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier on June 6.

It will be the end of an era in Indian football after legendary player and captain Sunil Chhetri plays his last game against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier on June 6. Chhetri, on Thursday (May 16), took to the microblogging site X to announce his retirement from the game. After his decision, fans paid tribute to him by hailing his impact on Indian football. Here are all the reactions on X. I'd like to say something... pic.twitter.com/xwXbDi95WV — Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) May 16, 2024 × Sunil Chhetri announce retirement - Great Career - Role Model - Inspiration Happy Retirement Legend #SunilChhetri pic.twitter.com/i7Sl1dS6PN — Ash (@Ashsay_) May 16, 2024 × One Sun 🌞 One Moon 🌙 One Sunil Chhetri 🐐 Happy Retirement Legend :)#SunilChhetri pic.twitter.com/FOyfTQJw9U — Sir BoiesX (@BoiesX45) May 16, 2024 × Your legacy will inspire generations to come.💙 — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) May 16, 2024 × Forever in your debt. 🫡 It's been an honour, captain. 🇮🇳#ChhetriForever — Bengaluru FC (@bengalurufc) May 16, 2024 × We'll miss you, Captain. Leader. Legend💙 🇮🇳 — Premier League India (@PLforIndia) May 16, 2024 × Happy Retirement Captain Leader Legend ❤️❤️ You have been an inspiration for the whole generation. THANK YOU for everything. — The Analyzer (News Updates🗞️) (@Indian_Analyzer) May 16, 2024 × Happy retirement legend 🐐 , thank you for making our chilhood memorable ❤️🙏 — Saksham Garg (@sakshamgarg45) May 16, 2024 × The man who ignited the dreams of millions, the man who shouldered a nation beyond its capabilities, and the man who bows out after etching a mark of his own! 🇮🇳🐐 It's time for 𝘂𝘀 to shoulder 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝙊𝙉𝙀 𝙇𝘼𝙎𝙏 𝙏𝙄𝙈𝙀! 💙#SunilChhetri #IndianFootball #BlueTigers pic.twitter.com/gXhc7ZNV6U — Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) May 16, 2024 × Your contribution to #IndianFootball on the international stage will be etched in gold, Sunil! 🇮🇳 Thank you for all the memories! 👏#InternationalRetirement pic.twitter.com/Z1xLYUX2mD — East Bengal FC (@eastbengal_fc) May 16, 2024 × "“When I did decide that this is going to be my last game, I told my family about it. Dad was normal. He was relieved, happy, everything. It was my wife, strangely. I told her. ‘You always used to bug me that there are too many games, there’s too much of pressure. Now I am telling you that I’m not going to play for my country anymore after this game.’ Even they couldn’t tell me why there were tears. It’s not that I was feeling tired, not that I was feeling this or that. When the instinct came that this should be my last game, I thought about it a lot, eventually I came to this decision," Chhetri said in a video posted on his X handle. Chhetri will for one last time take the field against Kuwait on June 6 where he could add to his already impressive 94 international goals. He is currently the third highest active goal-scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (106). He remains the fourth-highest all-time top scorer in men's international football after Ronaldo, Ali Daei (109) and Messi. Chhetri will also retire as the second-highest goal-scorer from Asia, underling his legendary status.

Sunil Chhetri retires: Fans hail legendary Indian footballer on X, call it 'end of an era'

<p>Indian talisman Sunil Chhetri says he hopes to continue playing and scoring goals for the country in the "foreseeable future", his battle-hardened body getting a booster dose in the form of a landmark 77th international strike that drew him level with King Pele.</p>

<p>Chhetri, 37, equalled the legendary Pele when his 83rd-minute strike helped India beat Nepal 1-0 and saved his side from elimination in the SAFF Championship in Maldives on Sunday.</p>

<p>Even as his team goes through a prolonged lean phase, Chhetri's goal-scoring prowess remains as good as ever, which is a testament to his consistency and dedication.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saff-championship-sunil-chhetri-equals-peles-record-as-india-beat-nepal-1-0-419852">SAFF Championship: Sunil Chhetri equals Pele's record as India beat Nepal 1-0</a></strong></p>

<p>"I keep getting asked about my consistency, and I wish I had an answer. But the truth is, there is no blueprint. It's more about wanting to turn up every single day and give it my best, which, thankfully, I've never fallen short of," Chhetri told PTI after his latest strike.</p>

<p>Through his glorious journey, the deadly poacher from Delhi has played alongside former stars such as Bhaichung Bhutia and Renedy Singh in the national team, besides well-known international players in the ISL and I-League.</p>

<p>"I have been extremely lucky to have played with some great footballers who don't get enough credit. I've learned something from every single coach I have played for. It's the coming together of many things -- big and small -- and I hope to keep doing it in the foreseeable future," he added.</p>

<p>Notwithstanding the occasional chatter around his age and his longevity, the Indian captain wants to keep playing in top-flight and has not given his future any thought.</p>

<p>"It might sound like a lie, but I've never given my future as a footballer any thought. Like I said, the one thing I probably do the best is wake up and turn up to train and play. I look forward to it, thoroughly enjoy it and haven't ever wanted to stop doing it.</p>

<p>"My future plan with football is literally what my next training session will look like. I am fortunate enough to have a support system around me that makes sure I don't need to think or worry about anything that isn't football. It just makes it all the more easier to love what I do."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saff-championships-10-man-bangladesh-hold-india-1-1-despite-sunil-chhetris-76th-international-goal-418220"><strong>SAFF Championships: 10-man Bangladesh hold India 1-1 despite Sunil Chhetri's 76th international goal</strong></a></p>

<p>Playing in his 123rd match for India, Chhetri struck a late goal on Sunday to place himself on a par with the Brazilian great (77 goals from 92 matches).</p>

<p>He is now joint third with UAE's Ali Mabkhout (77) on the list of highest scorers among active footballers, behind Cristiano Ronaldo (112) and Lionel Messi (79).</p>

<p>Despite his innumerable achievements as a top-class striker at both international and club level and his success with the teams he has played for, Chhetri remains as hungry as ever.</p>

<p>"If there's a trophy up for grabs, then I want to win it,&nbsp;it's as simple as that. There's not too many athletes or teams that are content with what's in their trophy cabinet. I'm no different.</p>

<p>"On an individual level, I am not a big fan of statistics, milestones and accolades. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful for all that I've got and achieved. But to win with my team -- for country and club, that is everything."</p>

<p>As with other sports, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the plans of most football teams and the India and Bengaluru FC striker is glad to be playing the game at the moment.</p>

<p>"Ever since international football restarted after the pandemic we have been utilising every FIFA window. Unluckily, I missed out on the matches against Oman and UAE in March (after testing positive for COVID). Those are the kind of matches which Indian football needs.</p>

<p>"At the same time, I understand that getting good games is tough owing to all the restrictions that pandemic has brought along with it."</p>

<p>There will be plenty of activity surrounding women's football in India next year (the country is hosting the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA U-17 World Cup), and Chhetri is delighted that the women have started getting opportunities to show their mettle in the sport. The day Chhetri scored his 77th international goal, the Indian women's team won their first of the two friendlies in Bahrain in a convincing manner.</p>

<p>"What also pleases me is that the Indian ladies have been travelling on exposure tours in preparation for the forthcoming AFC Women's Asian Cup, and it was only last night they beat Bahrain 5-0 "Like I always say, we need to keep playing better opponents if we are to improve and measure where we are, and how much more we need to do."</p>


Indian talisman Sunil Chhetri says he hopes to continue playing and scoring goals for the country in the "foreseeable future", his battle-hardened body getting a booster dose in the form of a landmark 77th international strike that drew him level with King Pele.

Indian talisman Sunil Chhetri says he hopes to continue playing and scoring goals for the country in the "foreseeable future", his battle-hardened body getting a booster dose in the form of a landmark 77th international strike that drew him level with King Pele. Chhetri, 37, equalled the legendary Pele when his 83rd-minute strike helped India beat Nepal 1-0 and saved his side from elimination in the SAFF Championship in Maldives on Sunday. Even as his team goes through a prolonged lean phase, Chhetri's goal-scoring prowess remains as good as ever, which is a testament to his consistency and dedication. ALSO READ: SAFF Championship: Sunil Chhetri equals Pele's record as India beat Nepal 1-0 "I keep getting asked about my consistency, and I wish I had an answer. But the truth is, there is no blueprint. It's more about wanting to turn up every single day and give it my best, which, thankfully, I've never fallen short of," Chhetri told PTI after his latest strike. Through his glorious journey, the deadly poacher from Delhi has played alongside former stars such as Bhaichung Bhutia and Renedy Singh in the national team, besides well-known international players in the ISL and I-League. "I have been extremely lucky to have played with some great footballers who don't get enough credit. I've learned something from every single coach I have played for. It's the coming together of many things -- big and small -- and I hope to keep doing it in the foreseeable future," he added. Notwithstanding the occasional chatter around his age and his longevity, the Indian captain wants to keep playing in top-flight and has not given his future any thought. "It might sound like a lie, but I've never given my future as a footballer any thought. Like I said, the one thing I probably do the best is wake up and turn up to train and play. I look forward to it, thoroughly enjoy it and haven't ever wanted to stop doing it. "My future plan with football is literally what my next training session will look like. I am fortunate enough to have a support system around me that makes sure I don't need to think or worry about anything that isn't football. It just makes it all the more easier to love what I do." ALSO READ: SAFF Championships: 10-man Bangladesh hold India 1-1 despite Sunil Chhetri's 76th international goal Playing in his 123rd match for India, Chhetri struck a late goal on Sunday to place himself on a par with the Brazilian great (77 goals from 92 matches). He is now joint third with UAE's Ali Mabkhout (77) on the list of highest scorers among active footballers, behind Cristiano Ronaldo (112) and Lionel Messi (79). Despite his innumerable achievements as a top-class striker at both international and club level and his success with the teams he has played for, Chhetri remains as hungry as ever. "If there's a trophy up for grabs, then I want to win it, it's as simple as that. There's not too many athletes or teams that are content with what's in their trophy cabinet. I'm no different. "On an individual level, I am not a big fan of statistics, milestones and accolades. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful for all that I've got and achieved. But to win with my team -- for country and club, that is everything." As with other sports, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the plans of most football teams and the India and Bengaluru FC striker is glad to be playing the game at the moment. "Ever since international football restarted after the pandemic we have been utilising every FIFA window. Unluckily, I missed out on the matches against Oman and UAE in March (after testing positive for COVID). Those are the kind of matches which Indian football needs. "At the same time, I understand that getting good games is tough owing to all the restrictions that pandemic has brought along with it." There will be plenty of activity surrounding women's football in India next year (the country is hosting the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA U-17 World Cup), and Chhetri is delighted that the women have started getting opportunities to show their mettle in the sport. The day Chhetri scored his 77th international goal, the Indian women's team won their first of the two friendlies in Bahrain in a convincing manner. "What also pleases me is that the Indian ladies have been travelling on exposure tours in preparation for the forthcoming AFC Women's Asian Cup, and it was only last night they beat Bahrain 5-0 "Like I always say, we need to keep playing better opponents if we are to improve and measure where we are, and how much more we need to do."

I hope to keep playing and scoring in foreseeable future: Sunil Chhetri reacts after equalling Pele's record

<p>An 82nd-minute strike by Sunil Chhetri handed India a 1-0 win over Nepal in the SAFF Championship 2021 Group Stage, at the National Stadium here.&nbsp;The Indian captain's goal was special as it meant that he also equalled football great Pele in terms of most number of international goals, now being tied on 77. The 37-year-old striker is also the third-highest scorer among active footballers, only behind Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo (111) and Argentina's great&nbsp;Lionel Messi (79).&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this win, India broke the sequence of draws and are now in the third spot on the group table with five points, one behind Maldives and Nepal, both of whom have six points apiece.</p>

<p><strong>Watch highlights:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-highlights-saff-championships-2021-india-held-to-a-draw-by-sri-lanka-419005">SAFF Championships 2021 - India held to a draw by Sri Lanka</a></strong><br />
<br />
India started off on the front foot late on Sunday evening, winning their first corner of the match as early as in the third minute. The Nepali defence was up to the task though, as they cleared the ball that was swung in by Brandon Fernandes.<br />
<br />
A keen battle ensued between the two captains -- Sunil Chhetri and Kiran Kumar Limbu -- in the opening exchanges. India constantly tried to feed the ball to Chhetri, but Limbu nipped the chances in time.<br />
<br />
A little under the 20-minute mark, Chhetri managed to control an aerial ball inside the box, but he was herded into a tight angle by the defence and Limbu managed to parry it away.<br />
<br />
India had their best chance of the first half in the 34th minute, when Suresh was fed through inside the box by Pritam Kotal. The midfielder flashed a low cross across goal to Chhetri, who was waiting unmarked at the far post. However, a slight touch by Limbu scuppered the chance, as the India captain`s eventual shot went agonisingly wide.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saff-championships-10-man-bangladesh-hold-india-1-1-despite-sunil-chhetris-76th-international-goal-418220"><strong>SAFF Championships: 10-man Bangladesh hold India 1-1 despite Sunil Chhetri's 76th international goal</strong></a><br />
<br />
With two minutes of regulation time in the first half left, Chhetri created another chance, when he nodded a Suresh cross into the path of Manvir Singh, who tried to control the ball, but was muscled off it, as the two teams went into the break with the score still remaining 0-0.<br />
<br />
With eight minutes of regulation time left, captain Chhetri broke the deadlock. Substitute Farukh Choudhary headed an aerial through ball by Brandon onto Chhetri`s path, as the India captain volleyed it home with his left foot.<br />
<br />
India will play their final group game against hosts Maldives on October 13.</p>


An 82nd-minute strike by Sunil Chhetri handed India a 1-0 win over Nepal in the SAFF Championship 2021 Group Stage, at the National Stadium here. The Indian captain's goal was special as it meant that he also equalled football great Pele in terms of most number of international goals, now being tied on 77.

An 82nd-minute strike by Sunil Chhetri handed India a 1-0 win over Nepal in the SAFF Championship 2021 Group Stage, at the National Stadium here. The Indian captain's goal was special as it meant that he also equalled football great Pele in terms of most number of international goals, now being tied on 77. The 37-year-old striker is also the third-highest scorer among active footballers, only behind Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo (111) and Argentina's great Lionel Messi (79). With this win, India broke the sequence of draws and are now in the third spot on the group table with five points, one behind Maldives and Nepal, both of whom have six points apiece. Watch highlights: SAFF Championships 2021 - India held to a draw by Sri Lanka India started off on the front foot late on Sunday evening, winning their first corner of the match as early as in the third minute. The Nepali defence was up to the task though, as they cleared the ball that was swung in by Brandon Fernandes. A keen battle ensued between the two captains -- Sunil Chhetri and Kiran Kumar Limbu -- in the opening exchanges. India constantly tried to feed the ball to Chhetri, but Limbu nipped the chances in time. A little under the 20-minute mark, Chhetri managed to control an aerial ball inside the box, but he was herded into a tight angle by the defence and Limbu managed to parry it away. India had their best chance of the first half in the 34th minute, when Suresh was fed through inside the box by Pritam Kotal. The midfielder flashed a low cross across goal to Chhetri, who was waiting unmarked at the far post. However, a slight touch by Limbu scuppered the chance, as the India captain`s eventual shot went agonisingly wide. ALSO READ: SAFF Championships: 10-man Bangladesh hold India 1-1 despite Sunil Chhetri's 76th international goal With two minutes of regulation time in the first half left, Chhetri created another chance, when he nodded a Suresh cross into the path of Manvir Singh, who tried to control the ball, but was muscled off it, as the two teams went into the break with the score still remaining 0-0. With eight minutes of regulation time left, captain Chhetri broke the deadlock. Substitute Farukh Choudhary headed an aerial through ball by Brandon onto Chhetri`s path, as the India captain volleyed it home with his left foot. India will play their final group game against hosts Maldives on October 13.

SAFF Championship: Sunil Chhetri equals Pele's record as India beat Nepal 1-0

<p>Virat Kohli posted a video of an ‘accidental crossbar challenge’ on Twitter showing off his football skills. The video garnered a lot of reaction from the netizens, including, Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2021-expected-to-resume-on-september-19-20-in-the-uae-report-387307">Cricket: IPL 2021 expected to resume on September 19-20 in the UAE - Report</a></p>

<p>Sunil Chhetri, the Indian football captain and country's highest&nbsp;goal-scorer, has been good friends with Indian skipper Kohli. Both have shared a warm relationship with each other and people got a sneak peek in their Instagram live that took place in May last year.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Saare coaching sessions ka ek hi invoice bheju, ya aasan kishton mein chukaoge, champ? 😉 <a href="https://t.co/i98I9a9Nmq">https://t.co/i98I9a9Nmq</a></p>
— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11/status/1397205751328821264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Saare coaching sessions ka ek hi invoice bheju, ya aasan kishton mein chukaoge, champ? (Should I send a collective invoice for all the coaching sessions or do you want to pay me in easy instalments, champ?),” tweeted Chhetri while quoting Kohli’s video.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, skipper Kohli took to Twitter and posted a video in which he can be seen attempting to score a goal but ends up hitting the crossbar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several netizens reacted to the video making it the talking point on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, New Zealand legend Richard Hadlee lauded skipper Kohli for his contribution to Team India and said that he was responsible in ensuring that the team is still competitive. &nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli posted a video of an ‘accidental crossbar challenge’ on Twitter showing off his football skills. The video garnered a lot of reaction from the netizens, including, Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri.

Virat Kohli posted a video of an ‘accidental crossbar challenge’ on Twitter showing off his football skills. The video garnered a lot of reaction from the netizens, including, Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri. ALSO READ: Cricket: IPL 2021 expected to resume on September 19-20 in the UAE - Report Sunil Chhetri, the Indian football captain and country's highest goal-scorer, has been good friends with Indian skipper Kohli. Both have shared a warm relationship with each other and people got a sneak peek in their Instagram live that took place in May last year. Saare coaching sessions ka ek hi invoice bheju, ya aasan kishton mein chukaoge, champ? 😉 https://t.co/i98I9a9Nmq — Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) May 25, 2021 × “Saare coaching sessions ka ek hi invoice bheju, ya aasan kishton mein chukaoge, champ? (Should I send a collective invoice for all the coaching sessions or do you want to pay me in easy instalments, champ?),” tweeted Chhetri while quoting Kohli’s video. On Tuesday, skipper Kohli took to Twitter and posted a video in which he can be seen attempting to score a goal but ends up hitting the crossbar. Several netizens reacted to the video making it the talking point on social media. Recently, New Zealand legend Richard Hadlee lauded skipper Kohli for his contribution to Team India and said that he was responsible in ensuring that the team is still competitive.

'Should I send a collective invoice?': Sunil Chhetri's hilarious response to Virat Kohli's viral video

<p>The Indian national men's senior team will take on New Zealand in their third game of the Intercontinental Cup 2018 at the Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai on June 7.</p>

<p>Sunil Chhetri-led team India will look to extend the winning run ahead of the final clash.</p>

<p>The match will be played on June 7, 2018 and will begin at 8 pm IST. All the tickets for the Indian football team's remaining Intercontinental Cup matches have been sold out.</p>

<p>On June 2, Chhetri posted a video on social networking sites and pleaded to fellow citizens to come and support the Blue Tigers at the stadiums at every possible opportunity.</p>

<p>India responded to the emotional request of Sunil Chhetri and a full house stadium greeted him at Mumbai Arena Stadium for the match against Kenya which India registered a comprehensive 3-0 victory against Kenya.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India are going to face <a href="https://twitter.com/NZ_Football?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NZ_Football</a> in the final match of the round robin stage of the Hero Intercontinental Cup tonight. Let the winning momentum continue <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBlue?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBlue</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreIndia?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsianDream?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsianDream</a> <a href="https://t.co/DaqqnOzNFT">pic.twitter.com/DaqqnOzNFT</a></p>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1004587472515260416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>After the goalless first half, Chhetri scored after a controversial penalty that was given to the hosts in the 68th minute to give a lead to the team. Again, took advantage in the extra time and scored the third goal for the team. He converted a beautiful cross-field assist from Balwant Singh to celebrate his 100th international match.</p>

<p>Sunil Chhetri thanked the supporters who turned up at Mumbai Football Arena to watch that match.</p>


All the tickets for the Indian football team's remaining Intercontinental Cup matches have been sold out

The Indian national men's senior team will take on New Zealand in their third game of the Intercontinental Cup 2018 at the Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai on June 7. Sunil Chhetri-led team India will look to extend the winning run ahead of the final clash. The match will be played on June 7, 2018 and will begin at 8 pm IST. All the tickets for the Indian football team's remaining Intercontinental Cup matches have been sold out. On June 2, Chhetri posted a video on social networking sites and pleaded to fellow citizens to come and support the Blue Tigers at the stadiums at every possible opportunity. India responded to the emotional request of Sunil Chhetri and a full house stadium greeted him at Mumbai Arena Stadium for the match against Kenya which India registered a comprehensive 3-0 victory against Kenya. India are going to face @NZ_Football in the final match of the round robin stage of the Hero Intercontinental Cup tonight. Let the winning momentum continue #INDvNZL #BackTheBlue #WeAreIndia #AsianDream pic.twitter.com/DaqqnOzNFT — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) June 7, 2018 × After the goalless first half, Chhetri scored after a controversial penalty that was given to the hosts in the 68th minute to give a lead to the team. Again, took advantage in the extra time and scored the third goal for the team. He converted a beautiful cross-field assist from Balwant Singh to celebrate his 100th international match. Sunil Chhetri thanked the supporters who turned up at Mumbai Football Arena to watch that match.

India vs New Zealand, Intercontinental Cup: Sunil Chhetri-led Indian team look to extend winning run

<p>Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri thanked the supporters who turned up at Mumbai Football Arena to watch that match between India and Kenya on June 4. Chhetri struck twice in his 100th international game to register a comprehensive 3-0 victory against Kenya in the Intercontinental Cup football tournament. After winning the match, Sunil Chhetri took to the Twitter to express his gratitude for the love and support Indian team received.</p>

<p>Chhetri tweeted, "We promise you that if that's the kind of support we get every time we play for the country, we will give our lives on the pitch. India, this night was special because we were in this together. Those in the stands shouting, and the ones at home cheering - thank you!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We promise you that if that’s the kind of support we get every time we play for the country, we will give our lives on the pitch. India, this night was special because we were in this together. Those in the stands shouting, and the ones at home cheering - thank you!</p>
— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11/status/1003694651285442561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>On June 2, Chhetri posted a video on social networking sites and pleaded to fellow citizens to come and support the Blue Tigers at the stadiums at every possible opportunity.</p>

<p>India responded to the heartfelt plea as the tickets of India vs Kenya match sold out in hours and a full house cheered for the team.</p>

<p>India comfortably defeated Kenya as captain Chhetri converted a penalty in the 68th minute to give a lead which was further extended by Jeje Lalpekhlua when he doubled India's lead in the 71st minute.</p>

<p>Sunil Chhetri took advantage in the extra time and scored the third goal for the team. He converted a beautiful cross-field assist from Balwant Singh to celebrate his 100th international match.</p>

<p>Team India has entered the finals but will play its next match against New Zealand.</p>


'India, this night was special because we were in this together,' says Sunil Chhetri

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri thanked the supporters who turned up at Mumbai Football Arena to watch that match between India and Kenya on June 4. Chhetri struck twice in his 100th international game to register a comprehensive 3-0 victory against Kenya in the Intercontinental Cup football tournament. After winning the match, Sunil Chhetri took to the Twitter to express his gratitude for the love and support Indian team received. Chhetri tweeted, "We promise you that if that's the kind of support we get every time we play for the country, we will give our lives on the pitch. India, this night was special because we were in this together. Those in the stands shouting, and the ones at home cheering - thank you!" We promise you that if that’s the kind of support we get every time we play for the country, we will give our lives on the pitch. India, this night was special because we were in this together. Those in the stands shouting, and the ones at home cheering - thank you! — Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) June 4, 2018 × On June 2, Chhetri posted a video on social networking sites and pleaded to fellow citizens to come and support the Blue Tigers at the stadiums at every possible opportunity. India responded to the heartfelt plea as the tickets of India vs Kenya match sold out in hours and a full house cheered for the team. India comfortably defeated Kenya as captain Chhetri converted a penalty in the 68th minute to give a lead which was further extended by Jeje Lalpekhlua when he doubled India's lead in the 71st minute. Sunil Chhetri took advantage in the extra time and scored the third goal for the team. He converted a beautiful cross-field assist from Balwant Singh to celebrate his 100th international match. Team India has entered the finals but will play its next match against New Zealand.

'We will give our lives on the pitch,' says Sunil Chhetri to express gratitude for fans' support

<p>The tickets of India vs Kenya match sold out in hours after a heartfelt plea made to fans by Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri. The match is scheduled to take place at&nbsp;Mumbai Football Arena on June 4.</p>

<p>On June 2, Chhetri posted a video on social networking sites and pleaded to fellow citizens to come and support the Blue Tigers at the stadiums at every possible opportunity.</p>

<p>Chhetri made the plea a day after his hat-trick helped India defeat Chinese Taipei side 5-0 in front of a sparse crowd at Mumbai Football Arena. He is regarded as one of the greatest footballers that India has produced, urged the people who abuse to come to the ground and scream at them instead of taking out their anger on the social media platforms.</p>

<p>The appeal was also backed by India's cricket heroes Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar which helped in in a quick sale of the tickets.</p>

<p>"To all of you who are fans of big European clubs and support European clubs with so much passion and sometimes you guys think that the level is not the same, so why do you waste your time? Agreed, the level is not the same, not even close but with our desire and determination, we will try our best to make your time worth," Chhetri said while thanking the fans who did show up and requested others to support the team.</p>

<p>Chhetri will play his 100th match at Mumbai Arena against Kenya on June 4 and a house full stadium will be waiting to cheer him as well as the team.</p>

<p>On Monday, the website selling tickets for the four-nation tournament showed 'Sold Out' for the match against Kenya.</p>

<p>A popular Mumbai social media commentator, Nikunj Lotia, said he had booked an entire stand for the game which will be Chhetri's 100th international.</p>


The tickets of India vs Kenya match sold out in hours after a heartfelt plea made to fans by Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri

The tickets of India vs Kenya match sold out in hours after a heartfelt plea made to fans by Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri. The match is scheduled to take place at Mumbai Football Arena on June 4. On June 2, Chhetri posted a video on social networking sites and pleaded to fellow citizens to come and support the Blue Tigers at the stadiums at every possible opportunity. Chhetri made the plea a day after his hat-trick helped India defeat Chinese Taipei side 5-0 in front of a sparse crowd at Mumbai Football Arena. He is regarded as one of the greatest footballers that India has produced, urged the people who abuse to come to the ground and scream at them instead of taking out their anger on the social media platforms. The appeal was also backed by India's cricket heroes Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar which helped in in a quick sale of the tickets. "To all of you who are fans of big European clubs and support European clubs with so much passion and sometimes you guys think that the level is not the same, so why do you waste your time? Agreed, the level is not the same, not even close but with our desire and determination, we will try our best to make your time worth," Chhetri said while thanking the fans who did show up and requested others to support the team. Chhetri will play his 100th match at Mumbai Arena against Kenya on June 4 and a house full stadium will be waiting to cheer him as well as the team. On Monday, the website selling tickets for the four-nation tournament showed 'Sold Out' for the match against Kenya. A popular Mumbai social media commentator, Nikunj Lotia, said he had booked an entire stand for the game which will be Chhetri's 100th international.

After plea by football captain Sunil Chhetri, India vs Kenya tickets sell out in hours

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