Sunil Chhetri scores on comeback as India secures 3-0 victory in International Friendly

Sunil Chhetri marked his return to international football with a goal as India defeated the Maldives 3-0 in a friendly match at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. This victory ended India’s 489-day winless streak, providing a confidence boost ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualification third round.

Manolo Márquez names his India XI 🇮🇳 as Sunil Chhetri takes the ©️ armband. Once again. 🤩

Cap number 152. 💙#INDMDV #BlueTigers 🐯 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/HqH31mV9m4

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) March 19, 2025

Match Highlights:

35’ – Rahul Bheke Opens the Scoring

Bheke put India ahead with a well-placed header from a corner delivered by Brandon Fernandes.

66’ – Liston Colaco Doubles the Lead

Another header, this time from Liston Colaco, extended India’s advantage after a well-timed corner.

76’ – Sunil Chhetri Seals the Win

Making his international return after reversing his retirement decision, Chhetri scored India's third goal, connecting perfectly with Colaco’s cross.

India maintained a clean sheet while dominating possession and attacking opportunities. With this morale-boosting win, the team now shifts focus to their AFC Asian Cup qualification match against Bangladesh on March 25.