Sunil Chhetri’s swansong: India announces squad for Kuwait clash in the World Cup Qualifier

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri is set to retire from international football after the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Kuwait on June 6th. To mark this momentous occasion, head coach Igor Stimac has named a 27-member squad for the match, which will be played at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

Trimming the Squad

The squad selection process began with a training camp in Bhubaneswar that included 32 players. After careful evaluation, Stimac decided to release five players: Phurba Lachenpa, Parthib Gogoi, Imran Khan, Muhammad Hammad, and Jithin MS. Stimac praised the professionalism and work ethic of all the attendees, highlighting the tough competition, especially for the positions vacated by Parthib and Jithin, who are recovering from minor injuries.

The Final 27

The final squad boasts a strong mix of experience and young talent. Here’s a breakdown by position:

• Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, the undisputed number one, alongside Amrinder Singh and Vishal Kaith.
• Defenders: Seasoned campaigners like Rahul Bheke and Subhasish Bose will provide solidity at the back, along with promising youngsters like Amey Ranawade and Anwar Ali.
• Midfielders: The midfield core features the creative spark of Anirudh Thapa and Brandon Fernandes, while energetic talents like Lalchungnunga and Amey Ranawade add dynamism.
• Forwards: Of course, the spotlight will be on Sunil Chhetri in his final international appearance. He’ll have the support of a potent attacking line-up that includes Manvir Singh and the in-form Rahim Ali.

A Match to Remember

The June 6th clash against Kuwait is not just a World Cup qualifier, but a celebration of Sunil Chhetri’s illustrious career. With a packed stadium expected in Kolkata, the atmosphere promises to be electric. Indian fans will be eager to witness Chhetri weave his magic one last time and give him a fitting send-off.

Also Read: Klopp Bids Farewell: An Emotional End to an Era at Anfield

This match marks the end of an era for Indian football. Chhetri’s legacy as the national team’s highest scorer and most capped player is undeniable. The onus will now be on the younger generation to step up and inspire the next chapter of Indian football.

DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.