Sunil Chhetri becomes fourth-highest goal-scorer in international football | Football News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: In a scintillating start to their SAFF Championship campaign, India showcased their dominance by thrashing arch-rivals Pakistan with a resounding 4-0 victory at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. Leading from the front, Indian captain Sunil Chhetri stole the show with a spectacular hat-trick, cementing his position as one of India’s greatest football legends.
Chhetri’s remarkable feat not only secured the triumph against Pakistanbut also propelled him to the fourth spot among the highest goal-scorers in international football history.With his hat-trick in the opener, Chhetri’s goal tally soared to an impressive 90 goals, surpassing Malaysia’s Mokhtar Dahari, who previously held the fourth position with 89 goals.

Currently, only three footballing legends stand ahead of Chhetri in the prestigious goal-scoring list. Argentina’s Lionel Messi, renowned for his FIFA World Cup-winning performances, holds the third position with 103 goals. Ali Daei of Iran, an iconic figure in Asian football, sits in second place with 109 goals. Sitting atop the list is the legendary Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo, who boasts a remarkable 123 international goals.

Among active players, Chhetri proudly occupies the third position, with only Messi and Ronaldo outscoring him in international football. This achievement showcases his remarkable talent, dedication, and undying passion for the sport.
The Indian team’s victory over Pakistan not only marked their outstanding performance but also extended their remarkable clean sheet record against their traditional rivals to seven. This win also propelled India to the top of the points table in Group A on better goal difference, surpassing Kuwait, who triumphed over Nepal with a scoreline of 3-1 earlier in the day.

Entering the SAFF Championship on the back of their title-winning campaign at the Intercontinental Cup 2023, India showcased their prowess and determination to continue their winning streak. With their current FIFA ranking standing at 101, the Indian team is determined to make their mark in the tournament and assert their presence on the international stage.
(With inputs from ANI)