<p>Football great India’s Sunil Chhetri bid adieu to the game following a 0-0 draw against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup Qualifier clash at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on June 6. The fourth-highest goal scorer in international football after the legendary duo of Cristiano Ronaldo (128*), Lionel Messi (106*) and Ali Daei (108), Chhetri retired with 94 goals to his name – the most by an Indian (in 151 matches).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After 19 years of service, farewell, <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chetrisunil11</a>. 🇮🇳​❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WCQ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WCQ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/mHuuJhvCid">pic.twitter.com/mHuuJhvCid</a></p>
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1798740795652206786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The crowd in attendance gave a standing ovation to the maestro while teammates gave him an emotional guard of honour.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/india-vs-kuwait-world-cup-qualifiers-sunil-chettris-retirement-party-spoiled-by-dogged-visitors-729442">India vs Kuwait, World Cup Qualifiers: Sunil Chhetri's retirement party spoiled by dogged visitors</a></strong></p>

<p>After the game, a teary-eyed Chhetri took a lap of honour at the iconic stadium, with thousands of fans standing on their feet chanting his name. Even during the game, the crowd was buzzing, with everyone’s eyes locked on the veteran striker to score a goal in his final match in the Indian jersey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, countless banners and posters of gratitude and admiration towards their departing hero were visible, with messages like "Sonar Sunil. Tomay Hrid Majhare Rakhbo" (Golden Sunil. Will keep you in my heart), "India Till I Die," and “Thanks Captain. Leader. Legend” reflecting the love and respect he earned throughout his career.</p>

<p>Not only Chhetri, his father, who was also present at the venue, admitted getting emotional watching his son saying goodbye to the sport he debuted 19 years ago.</p>

<h2>You can watch the video here –</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A very emotional moment for Sunil Chhetri. He couldn't hold his tears as the team members give him guard of honor. <a href="https://t.co/wt2qjuDs9A">pic.twitter.com/wt2qjuDs9A</a></p>
— Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sports_Himanshu/status/1798742634288279950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, ahead of Chhetri’s final India match, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee acknowledged his contributions in a heartfelt social media post.</p>

<p>"Welcome Sunil Chhetri @chetrisunil11 to the beginning of a glorious new journey. You start a new phase of life today. You have been a golden boy of Bengal, Captain of the Indian football team, a sports icon of Asia, a globally adored scorer, a giant achiever. I am sure that you will continue to play, add to our glory and achieve many more laurels for yourself and us. It is not a day of farewell for you. It is a day to renew your pledge to uphold the glory of your family, Bengal and India further and further. Wish and pray for your future successes," West Bengal CM wrote in a&nbsp;post on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome Sunil Chhetri <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chetrisunil11</a> to the beginning of a glorious new journey. You start a new phase of life today.<br />
<br />
You have been a golden boy of Bengal, Captain of the Indian football team, a sports icon of Asia, a globally adored scorer, a giant achiever. I am sure that…</p>
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1798717947747389633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Football great India’s Sunil Chhetri bid adieu to the game following a 0-0 draw against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup Qualifier clash at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on June 6.

Football great India’s Sunil Chhetri bid adieu to the game following a 0-0 draw against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup Qualifier clash at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on June 6. The fourth-highest goal scorer in international football after the legendary duo of Cristiano Ronaldo (128*), Lionel Messi (106*) and Ali Daei (108), Chhetri retired with 94 goals to his name – the most by an Indian (in 151 matches). After 19 years of service, farewell, @chetrisunil11. 🇮🇳❤️#WCQ | @IndianFootball pic.twitter.com/mHuuJhvCid — FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 6, 2024 × The crowd in attendance gave a standing ovation to the maestro while teammates gave him an emotional guard of honour. ALSO READ: India vs Kuwait, World Cup Qualifiers: Sunil Chhetri's retirement party spoiled by dogged visitors After the game, a teary-eyed Chhetri took a lap of honour at the iconic stadium, with thousands of fans standing on their feet chanting his name. Even during the game, the crowd was buzzing, with everyone’s eyes locked on the veteran striker to score a goal in his final match in the Indian jersey. Besides, countless banners and posters of gratitude and admiration towards their departing hero were visible, with messages like "Sonar Sunil. Tomay Hrid Majhare Rakhbo" (Golden Sunil. Will keep you in my heart), "India Till I Die," and “Thanks Captain. Leader. Legend” reflecting the love and respect he earned throughout his career. Not only Chhetri, his father, who was also present at the venue, admitted getting emotional watching his son saying goodbye to the sport he debuted 19 years ago. You can watch the video here – A very emotional moment for Sunil Chhetri. He couldn't hold his tears as the team members give him guard of honor. pic.twitter.com/wt2qjuDs9A — Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) June 6, 2024 × Meanwhile, ahead of Chhetri’s final India match, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee acknowledged his contributions in a heartfelt social media post. "Welcome Sunil Chhetri @chetrisunil11 to the beginning of a glorious new journey. You start a new phase of life today. You have been a golden boy of Bengal, Captain of the Indian football team, a sports icon of Asia, a globally adored scorer, a giant achiever. I am sure that you will continue to play, add to our glory and achieve many more laurels for yourself and us. It is not a day of farewell for you. It is a day to renew your pledge to uphold the glory of your family, Bengal and India further and further. Wish and pray for your future successes," West Bengal CM wrote in a post on X. Welcome Sunil Chhetri @chetrisunil11 to the beginning of a glorious new journey. You start a new phase of life today. You have been a golden boy of Bengal, Captain of the Indian football team, a sports icon of Asia, a globally adored scorer, a giant achiever. I am sure that… — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) June 6, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Watch – Teary-eyed Sunil Chhetri bids adieu as teammates give emotional guard of honour

<p>Over 58,000 spectators gathered at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata to bid adieu to legendary Indian footballer, Sunil Chhetri were left disappointed as India played an entertaining but a goalless draw against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chhetri's 151st and final game in Indian colours needed to end in a win for India to qualify for the third round of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. However, Kuwait made a nuisance of themselves to deny the Indian captain the perfect sendoff.</p>

<p>Chhetri could be seen tearing up after the final whistle as he greeted the fans around the stadium.&nbsp;The draw, however, means that India's fate does not lie in their own hands.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">THE LAST DANCE HAS ENDED...!!!!<br />
<br />
- Thank you, Sunil Chhetri for all the memories &amp; taking Indian football to a great level. 🇮🇳 👏 <a href="https://t.co/7Ed5tUCLRZ">pic.twitter.com/7Ed5tUCLRZ</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1798742942720688287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A very emotional moment for Sunil Chhetri. He couldn't hold his tears as the team members give him guard of honor. <a href="https://t.co/wt2qjuDs9A">pic.twitter.com/wt2qjuDs9A</a></p>
— Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sports_Himanshu/status/1798742634288279950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>India had the better chances in the first half as Anwar Ali had free header on couple of occasion but could not put the ball to the back of the net. Liston Colaco was the constant threat from the left side for the hosts and fizzed some wonderful deliveries into the box but heroic defending from Kuwaiti players kept India at bay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chhetri made the highest number of sprints/runs (26) into the box but other Indian outfielders were unable to pick him. After halftime, Kuwait stepped up on the gas and created numerous dangerous situation as Igor Stimac's men appeared to be running on fumes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second half saw India lose steam and rely on&nbsp;counter-attacking opportunities to make runs into the opposition penalty box. A few half-chances did come India's way but none were converted as Kuwait looked the better of the two sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will next travel to Qatar on June 11 to play their last match of second round of FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/football/sunil-chhetri-retires-6-interesting-facts-about-indias-football-legend-1715843814157" target="_blank">Sunil Chhetri Retires: 6 Interesting Facts About India's Football Legend</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Chhetri retires as a legend</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the outcome, Chhetri retires as one of the greatest-ever players to have donned the Indian jersey. His 19-year long illustrious career ends with 151 caps and 94 international goals. He signs off as the third&nbsp;highest active goal-scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (106).</p>

<p>The Indian forward remains the fourth-highest all-time top scorer in men's international football after Ronaldo, Ali Daei (109) and Messi. Chhetri also retires as the second-highest goal-scorer from Asia, underlining his legendary status.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Group A standings as they stand:</b></p>

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Positions</td>
			<td>Teams</td>
			<td>Matches</td>
			<td>Won</td>
			<td>Drawn</td>
			<td>Lost</td>
			<td>GF</td>
			<td>GA</td>
			<td>GD</td>
			<td>Points</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>Qatar</td>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>0</td>
			<td>0</td>
			<td>16</td>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>14</td>
			<td>12</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>India</td>
			<td>5</td>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>5</td>
			<td>-3</td>
			<td>5</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>Kuwait</td>
			<td>5</td>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>5</td>
			<td>6</td>
			<td>-1</td>
			<td>4</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>Afghanistan</td>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>13</td>
			<td>-10</td>
			<td>4</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p><strong>Playing XIs:</strong></p>

<p>India: Gurpreet Singh Sadhu, Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, Jay Gupta, Anirudh Thapa, Suresh Singh, Sunil Chhetri, Liston Colaco, Lallianzula Chhangte, Sahal Abdul Samad, Nikhil Poojary</p>

<p>Kuwait: Sulaiman (GK), Alenezi, Ibrahim, Abdulah, Alharbi, Alrashidi, Aldousari, Abujabarah, Saleh (C), Alsulaiman, Hasan Alenezi</p>

<p><em>(More to follow)</em></p>


Over 58,000 spectators gathered at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata to bid adieu to legendary Indian footballer, Sunil Chhetri were left disappointed as India played an entertaining but a goalless draw against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers match.

Over 58,000 spectators gathered at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata to bid adieu to legendary Indian footballer, Sunil Chhetri were left disappointed as India played an entertaining but a goalless draw against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers match. Chhetri's 151st and final game in Indian colours needed to end in a win for India to qualify for the third round of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. However, Kuwait made a nuisance of themselves to deny the Indian captain the perfect sendoff. Chhetri could be seen tearing up after the final whistle as he greeted the fans around the stadium. The draw, however, means that India's fate does not lie in their own hands. THE LAST DANCE HAS ENDED...!!!! - Thank you, Sunil Chhetri for all the memories & taking Indian football to a great level. 🇮🇳 👏 pic.twitter.com/7Ed5tUCLRZ — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) June 6, 2024 × A very emotional moment for Sunil Chhetri. He couldn't hold his tears as the team members give him guard of honor. pic.twitter.com/wt2qjuDs9A — Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) June 6, 2024 × India had the better chances in the first half as Anwar Ali had free header on couple of occasion but could not put the ball to the back of the net. Liston Colaco was the constant threat from the left side for the hosts and fizzed some wonderful deliveries into the box but heroic defending from Kuwaiti players kept India at bay. Chhetri made the highest number of sprints/runs (26) into the box but other Indian outfielders were unable to pick him. After halftime, Kuwait stepped up on the gas and created numerous dangerous situation as Igor Stimac's men appeared to be running on fumes. The second half saw India lose steam and rely on counter-attacking opportunities to make runs into the opposition penalty box. A few half-chances did come India's way but none were converted as Kuwait looked the better of the two sides. India will next travel to Qatar on June 11 to play their last match of second round of FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. Sunil Chhetri Retires: 6 Interesting Facts About India's Football Legend Chhetri retires as a legend Despite the outcome, Chhetri retires as one of the greatest-ever players to have donned the Indian jersey. His 19-year long illustrious career ends with 151 caps and 94 international goals. He signs off as the third highest active goal-scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (106). The Indian forward remains the fourth-highest all-time top scorer in men's international football after Ronaldo, Ali Daei (109) and Messi. Chhetri also retires as the second-highest goal-scorer from Asia, underlining his legendary status. Group A standings as they stand: Positions Teams Matches Won Drawn Lost GF GA GD Points 1 Qatar 4 4 0 0 16 2 14 12 2 India 5 1 2 2 2 5 -3 5 3 Kuwait 5 1 1 3 5 6 -1 4 4 Afghanistan 4 1 1 2 3 13 -10 4 Playing XIs: India: Gurpreet Singh Sadhu, Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, Jay Gupta, Anirudh Thapa, Suresh Singh, Sunil Chhetri, Liston Colaco, Lallianzula Chhangte, Sahal Abdul Samad, Nikhil Poojary Kuwait: Sulaiman (GK), Alenezi, Ibrahim, Abdulah, Alharbi, Alrashidi, Aldousari, Abujabarah, Saleh (C), Alsulaiman, Hasan Alenezi (More to follow)

India vs Kuwait, World Cup Qualifiers: Sunil Chhetri's retirement party spoiled by dogged visitors

<p><strong>India vs Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri retirement match Live Streaming Details: </strong>Indian football team captain Sunil Chhetri will be playing his last-ever international match when India square up against Kuwait in the FIFA World Qualifiers. The match will take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday (Jun 6) and a win would help India get its campaign back on track to enter the third round of qualifiers.</p>

<p>Chhetri announced his retirement from international football last month in a video message that came as a shock to fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Chhetri takes the field on Thursday, he could add to his already impressive 94 international goals tally. He is currently the third highest active goal-scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (106).</p>

<p>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, underlining his legendary status.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Here’s all you need to know about the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifier match.</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>When is the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait?</strong></h3>

<p>The second round FIFA World Cup qualifier match between India&nbsp;and Kuwait will take place on Thursday, June 6, 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Where is the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers Football Match?</strong></h3>

<p>The match will take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday (Jun 6)</p>

<h3><strong>When will the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers Football Match start?</strong></h3>

<p>The qualifier match between India&nbsp;and Kuwait for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin at 7 pm IST (1330 GMT).</p>

<h3><strong>Which TV channels will broadcast the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait?</strong></h3>

<p>The second round FIFA World Cup qualifier match between India&nbsp;and Kuwait will be broadcast on Sports18 Network’s TV channels.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Everything to play for 🇮🇳<br />
<br />
Watch Chhetri and the boys in the FIFA Qualifiers against 🇰🇼, LIVE only on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> 👈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvKUW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvKUW</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WCQualifiersonJioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WCQualifiersonJioCinema</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WCQualifiersonSports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WCQualifiersonSports18</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/5CZzr40nKx">pic.twitter.com/5CZzr40nKx</a></p>
— Sports18 (@Sports18) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sports18/status/1798588127633940782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h3><strong>How do I watch online live streaming of the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait?</strong></h3>

<p>The World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait live streaming will be available on JioCinema app and website. You can also follow all the updates on WION.&nbsp;</p>


India vs Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri retirement match Live Streaming Details: Indian football team captain Sunil Chhetri will be playing his last-ever international match when India square up against Kuwait in the FIFA World Qualifiers.

India vs Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri retirement match Live Streaming Details: Indian football team captain Sunil Chhetri will be playing his last-ever international match when India square up against Kuwait in the FIFA World Qualifiers. The match will take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday (Jun 6) and a win would help India get its campaign back on track to enter the third round of qualifiers. Chhetri announced his retirement from international football last month in a video message that came as a shock to fans. When Chhetri takes the field on Thursday, he could add to his already impressive 94 international goals tally. 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, underlining his legendary status. Here’s all you need to know about the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifier match. When is the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait? The second round FIFA World Cup qualifier match between India and Kuwait will take place on Thursday, June 6, 2024. Where is the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers Football Match? The match will take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday (Jun 6) When will the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers Football Match start? The qualifier match between India and Kuwait for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin at 7 pm IST (1330 GMT). Which TV channels will broadcast the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait? The second round FIFA World Cup qualifier match between India and Kuwait will be broadcast on Sports18 Network’s TV channels. Everything to play for 🇮🇳 Watch Chhetri and the boys in the FIFA Qualifiers against 🇰🇼, LIVE only on #JioCinema & #Sports18 👈#INDvKUW #WCQualifiersonJioCinema #WCQualifiersonSports18 #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/5CZzr40nKx — Sports18 (@Sports18) June 6, 2024 × How do I watch online live streaming of the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait? The World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait live streaming will be available on JioCinema app and website. You can also follow all the updates on WION.

India vs Kuwait Live Streaming, FIFA WC Qualifiers: When and where to watch Sunil Chhetri's retirement match

<p>Sunil Chhetri's father Kharga Chhetri has revealed that their son was on the verge of taking the&nbsp;National Defence Academy (NDA) exam and join the armed forces,&nbsp;even after having made his club debut. Ahead of Chhetri's final international match on Thursday (Jun 6), Chhetri Sr. spilled the beans on how the tour of Pakistan ignited the belief in the forward that football was his life.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kharga said owing to his army background, he wanted Sunil to either join defence by taking the NDA exam or the prestigious St. Stephens College in the capital city of Delhi.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Even after leaving Bagan after three years and joining JCT, initially, he wasn’t very happy. At the time he used to still consider taking his NDA exam. He was there in Punjab with his books while playing in the league for JCT," Chhetri Sr. told the <em>Indian Express </em>newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But it was once he got into the Indian team, played under Sukhwinder Singh and made his debut against Pakistan that he finally felt like this was going to be his life from now on."</p>

<p>Chhetri's decision to stick to football turned out to be glorious as he went on to score 94 goals for the country - making him the&nbsp;third-highest active goal-scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (106).</p>

<p>He remains the fourth-highest all-time top scorer in men's international football after Ronaldo, Ali Daei (109) and Messi. He will also retire as the second-highest goal-scorer from Asia, underlining his legendary status.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/india-vs-kuwait-live-streaming-match-details-sunil-chhetri-retirement-when-and-where-to-watch-729328"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India vs Kuwait Live Streaming, FIFA WC Qualifiers: When and where to watch Sunil Chhetri's retirement match</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Chhetri's legacy</strong></h2>

<p>Such has been Chhetri's legacy that&nbsp;Croatia and Real Madrid legend, Luka Modric sent a heartfelt video message to Chhetri and wished him best of luck for the final swansong.</p>

<p>"Hi Sunil! I just wanna say hello and wish you all the best for your last game with national team. Congratulations on your career. You are a legend of this game, and to your teammates, I hope you make his last game special and unforgettable. Good luck and win for your captain. All the best and love from Croatia," said the Ballon d'Or winner.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the accolades and tributes pouring his way,&nbsp;Chhetri, who draws curtains on his 19-year-long illustrious career, preferred to only talk about the massive task at hand on the eve of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match against Kuwait.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's not about me and my last match. I don't want to address it again and again. We really want to win this game. This is not going to be easy, but we are ready. We will have tremendous support," said Chhetri.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The match against Kuwait takes place at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata and gets underway at 7 pm IST (1330 GMT).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sunil Chhetri's father Kharga Chhetri has revealed that their son was on the verge of taking the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam and join the armed forces, even after having made his club debut.

Sunil Chhetri's father Kharga Chhetri has revealed that their son was on the verge of taking the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam and join the armed forces, even after having made his club debut. Ahead of Chhetri's final international match on Thursday (Jun 6), Chhetri Sr. spilled the beans on how the tour of Pakistan ignited the belief in the forward that football was his life. Kharga said owing to his army background, he wanted Sunil to either join defence by taking the NDA exam or the prestigious St. Stephens College in the capital city of Delhi. "Even after leaving Bagan after three years and joining JCT, initially, he wasn’t very happy. At the time he used to still consider taking his NDA exam. He was there in Punjab with his books while playing in the league for JCT," Chhetri Sr. told the Indian Express newspaper. "But it was once he got into the Indian team, played under Sukhwinder Singh and made his debut against Pakistan that he finally felt like this was going to be his life from now on." Chhetri's decision to stick to football turned out to be glorious as he went on to score 94 goals for the country - making him 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. He will also retire as the second-highest goal-scorer from Asia, underlining his legendary status. Also read | India vs Kuwait Live Streaming, FIFA WC Qualifiers: When and where to watch Sunil Chhetri's retirement match Chhetri's legacy Such has been Chhetri's legacy that Croatia and Real Madrid legend, Luka Modric sent a heartfelt video message to Chhetri and wished him best of luck for the final swansong. "Hi Sunil! I just wanna say hello and wish you all the best for your last game with national team. Congratulations on your career. You are a legend of this game, and to your teammates, I hope you make his last game special and unforgettable. Good luck and win for your captain. All the best and love from Croatia," said the Ballon d'Or winner. Despite the accolades and tributes pouring his way, Chhetri, who draws curtains on his 19-year-long illustrious career, preferred to only talk about the massive task at hand on the eve of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match against Kuwait. "It's not about me and my last match. I don't want to address it again and again. We really want to win this game. This is not going to be easy, but we are ready. We will have tremendous support," said Chhetri. The match against Kuwait takes place at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata and gets underway at 7 pm IST (1330 GMT). (With inputs from agencies)

'He wasn’t happy': Sunil Chhetri's father reveals when the striker wanted to take NDA exam

<p>Real Madrid star midfielder and Croatia captain Luka Modric shared a special message for Indian skipper Sunil Chhetri ahead of his final game in national colours. On Thursday (June 6), Chhetri will play his last&nbsp;game for India when they take on Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers at the iconic&nbsp;Salt Lake stadium in Kolkata. Chhetri had announced his retirement in mid-May, sending shockwaves across the Indian football fraternity.</p>

<p>With Chhetri&nbsp;stepping aside, Modric shared a special video lauding 'legend' Chhetri for his contributions to the game.</p>

<p>In a video, Modric stated, "Hi Sunil! I just wanna say hello and wish you all the best for your last game with national team. Congratulations on your career. You are a legend of this game, and to your teammates, I hope you make his last game special and unforgettable. Good luck and win for your captain. All the best and love from Croatia."</p>

<p><strong>Here is the clip&nbsp;shared by India coach Igor Stimac on X -</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you Luka 💙<br />
<br />
We will do everything in our power to make our country and our captain proud 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/lukamodric10?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lukamodric10</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chetrisunil11</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/eHPyPfnToi">pic.twitter.com/eHPyPfnToi</a></p>
— Igor Štimac (@stimac_igor) <a href="https://twitter.com/stimac_igor/status/1798409884104614183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/i-dont-want-to-sunil-chhetri-refuses-retirement-talks-ahead-of-crucial-match-vs-kuwait-728985">'I don't want to...': Sunil Chhetri refuses retirement talks ahead of crucial match vs Kuwait</a></strong></p>

<p>Chhetri has had a glorious run in international football. The 39-year-old will sign off as India's leading goal-scorer in the history of the game. The veteran has found the back of the net on a staggering 94 times at the highest stage. He is also the third-highest goal-scorer among active players, only behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, and fourth-overall.</p>

<p>In addition, Chhetri is the most capped Indian player, having worn the national jersey for 150 times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chhetri will be eager to sign off on a high and also lead India to a win over Kuwait in the all-important qualifiers match, in what is expected to be played on&nbsp;a jam-packed stadium in Kolkata.&nbsp;A win will virtually take India to their maiden appearance in the third round of the WC qualifiers.</p>


Real Madrid star midfielder and Croatia captain Luka Modric shared a special message for Indian skipper Sunil Chhetri ahead of his final game in national colours.

Real Madrid star midfielder and Croatia captain Luka Modric shared a special message for Indian skipper Sunil Chhetri ahead of his final game in national colours. On Thursday (June 6), Chhetri will play his last game for India when they take on Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers at the iconic Salt Lake stadium in Kolkata. Chhetri had announced his retirement in mid-May, sending shockwaves across the Indian football fraternity. With Chhetri stepping aside, Modric shared a special video lauding 'legend' Chhetri for his contributions to the game. In a video, Modric stated, "Hi Sunil! I just wanna say hello and wish you all the best for your last game with national team. Congratulations on your career. You are a legend of this game, and to your teammates, I hope you make his last game special and unforgettable. Good luck and win for your captain. All the best and love from Croatia." Here is the clip shared by India coach Igor Stimac on X - Thank you Luka 💙 We will do everything in our power to make our country and our captain proud 🇮🇳 @lukamodric10 @chetrisunil11 @IndianFootball pic.twitter.com/eHPyPfnToi — Igor Štimac (@stimac_igor) June 5, 2024 × Also read: 'I don't want to...': Sunil Chhetri refuses retirement talks ahead of crucial match vs Kuwait Chhetri has had a glorious run in international football. The 39-year-old will sign off as India's leading goal-scorer in the history of the game. The veteran has found the back of the net on a staggering 94 times at the highest stage. He is also the third-highest goal-scorer among active players, only behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, and fourth-overall. In addition, Chhetri is the most capped Indian player, having worn the national jersey for 150 times. Chhetri will be eager to sign off on a high and also lead India to a win over Kuwait in the all-important qualifiers match, in what is expected to be played on a jam-packed stadium in Kolkata. A win will virtually take India to their maiden appearance in the third round of the WC qualifiers.

'You are a legend': Luka Modric sends heartfelt message to Sunil Chhetri ahead of his final India game - Watch

<p>India clinched yet another historic triumph in their football history on Tuesday, July 4 after they got the better of Kuwait in the final of the SAFF Championships in a thrilling contest. Gurpreet Singh was again the hero of the contest for India after he played a crucial role in the penalty shootout that saw India lift their second silverware in less than a month. The contest initially finished 1-1 after extra time with India yet again proving to be the shootout kings having also gotten the better of Lebanon in the shootout.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">2⃣ Successful Penalty Shoouts in a row! INDIA 🇮🇳 ARE THE SAFF CHAMPIONS AGAIN! 🤩<br />
<br />
KUW 1⃣-1️⃣ IND<br />
<br />
🇰🇼: ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌<br />
🇮🇳: ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅<br />
<br />
📺 <a href="https://twitter.com/FanCode?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FanCode</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/ddsportschannel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ddsportschannel</a> 📱<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KUWIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KUWIND</a> ⚔️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAFFChampionship2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAFFChampionship2023</a> 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽️ <a href="https://t.co/pmm0mT3gcA">pic.twitter.com/pmm0mT3gcA</a></p>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1676273794074255360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>India clinch glory</strong></h2>

<p>India secured the right to be called the South Asia champions after a frantic final that saw both teams give their best. The hosts were trailing as early as the 14th minute after Shabib Al Khaldi gave the visitors the lead. India were struggling to find their shoes in the first half before they found their scoring boots seven minutes before the&nbsp;end of the first half. Lallianzuala Chhangte chipped in with his seventh international goal that saw India come to parity.</p>

<p>The scorers were then untroubled as both the teams failed to produce the breakthrough in the second half. Both India and Kuwait tried their best to win the contest in normal time, but with no further goals, the contest moved into extra time where the teams were again not separated. Eventually, for the second time in a matter of days, the contest was decided in the shootout.</p>

<h2><strong>Shootout drama</strong></h2>

<p>India were the first to take a penalty in the shootout as skipper Sunil Chhetri scored from the first spot kick while Kuwait missed with their first attempt. India then scored with their subsequent two penalties and had a 3-1 lead before the visitors came back into the contest. Kuwait levelled the score in the shootout at 4-4 after India failed to convert their chances.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-ashes-has-always-been-too-political-as-uk-oz-pms-get-involved-in-jonny-bairstow-row-611837">Explained | How Ashes has always been too political as UK, Oz PMs get involved in Jonny Bairstow row</a></p>

<p>However, India then took lead the in the shootout after Mahesh Naorem and would later clinch the tournament after Gurpreet saved&nbsp;Hajiah's penalty in the sudden death to win&nbsp;the shootout 5-4.</p>

<p>This was India’s ninth SAFF Championship win and they have won the tournament six times after the turn of the millennium. They will now turn their attention to the World Cup qualifiers where they are placed in pot two of the draws and will be expecting a favourable draw to make Round 3.</p>

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India clinched yet another historic triumph in their football history on Tuesday, July 4 after they got the better of Kuwait in the final of the SAFF Championships in a thrilling contest.

India clinched yet another historic triumph in their football history on Tuesday, July 4 after they got the better of Kuwait in the final of the SAFF Championships in a thrilling contest. Gurpreet Singh was again the hero of the contest for India after he played a crucial role in the penalty shootout that saw India lift their second silverware in less than a month. The contest initially finished 1-1 after extra time with India yet again proving to be the shootout kings having also gotten the better of Lebanon in the shootout. 2⃣ Successful Penalty Shoouts in a row! INDIA 🇮🇳 ARE THE SAFF CHAMPIONS AGAIN! 🤩 KUW 1⃣-1️⃣ IND 🇰🇼: ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ 🇮🇳: ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ 📺 @FanCode & @ddsportschannel 📱#KUWIND ⚔️ #SAFFChampionship2023 🏆 #IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/pmm0mT3gcA — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) July 4, 2023 × India clinch glory India secured the right to be called the South Asia champions after a frantic final that saw both teams give their best. The hosts were trailing as early as the 14th minute after Shabib Al Khaldi gave the visitors the lead. India were struggling to find their shoes in the first half before they found their scoring boots seven minutes before the end of the first half. Lallianzuala Chhangte chipped in with his seventh international goal that saw India come to parity. The scorers were then untroubled as both the teams failed to produce the breakthrough in the second half. Both India and Kuwait tried their best to win the contest in normal time, but with no further goals, the contest moved into extra time where the teams were again not separated. Eventually, for the second time in a matter of days, the contest was decided in the shootout. Shootout drama India were the first to take a penalty in the shootout as skipper Sunil Chhetri scored from the first spot kick while Kuwait missed with their first attempt. India then scored with their subsequent two penalties and had a 3-1 lead before the visitors came back into the contest. Kuwait levelled the score in the shootout at 4-4 after India failed to convert their chances. ALSO READ | Explained | How Ashes has always been too political as UK, Oz PMs get involved in Jonny Bairstow row However, India then took lead the in the shootout after Mahesh Naorem and would later clinch the tournament after Gurpreet saved Hajiah's penalty in the sudden death to win the shootout 5-4. This was India’s ninth SAFF Championship win and they have won the tournament six times after the turn of the millennium. They will now turn their attention to the World Cup qualifiers where they are placed in pot two of the draws and will be expecting a favourable draw to make Round 3. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

SAFF Championships Final: India down Kuwait to clinch ninth title; Gurpreet yet again turns shootout hero

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