Chhetri Returns to End 15-Month Winless Streak as India Triumphs 3-0 Over Maldives
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Synopsis
India celebrated a significant 3-0 victory over the Maldives, marking their first win under coach Manolo Marquez. The match featured standout performances from Sunil Chhetri, Liston Colaco, and Rahul Bheke, providing a morale boost ahead of upcoming qualifiers.
Key Takeaways
- India's first win under coach Manolo Marquez.
- Sunil Chhetri made a triumphant return after 286 days.
- Liston Colaco scored his debut goal for the national team.
- India displayed dominance in aerial duels.
- Concerns remain over Brandon Fernandes' injury.
Shillong, March 19 (NationPress) India achieved their inaugural victory under coach Manolo Marquez with a convincing 3-0 triumph against the Maldives at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Wednesday. This match marked India’s first win since November 2023, showcasing a comprehensive performance highlighted by goals from Sunil Chhetri, Liston Colaco, and a header from Rahul Bheke.
The atmosphere in the stadium, which hosted a senior men’s international match for the first time, was electric from the get-go as the legendary striker Chhetri made his return to the national team after 286 days, participating in his 152nd match. Fans were nearly on their feet in the opening minute when Chhetri initiated a play that almost led to a goal.
Right from the onset, the Blue Tigers demonstrated their offensive intent, with early opportunities falling to both Colaco and Chhetri. The breakthrough occurred just before halftime when Bheke netted a goal from a corner, putting India ahead 1-0. However, a moment of worry arose when Brandon Fernandes, a key player in the setup, was forced to exit due to injury in the 41st minute, with Farukh Choudhary taking his place.
The second half saw India maintain their attacking momentum. Just two minutes after the restart, Chhetri’s header was cleared off the line, but Colaco finally struck in the 65th minute, marking his first-ever goal for the national team with a powerful header. This performance underlined India’s superiority in aerial challenges, with set-pieces serving as their tactical advantage.
The pinnacle of the match arrived in the 76th minute when Chhetri capped off his national team return with a characteristic header from a Colaco cross, securing his 95th international goal and extending India’s lead to 3-0. This goal marked a triumphant return for the experienced striker, who had come out of retirement for this fixture.
Despite this victory, concerns lingered, particularly regarding the injury to Fernandes, a pivotal figure in India’s midfield. As India prepares for their AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers opener against Bangladesh on March 25, this win will undoubtedly provide a significant confidence boost for Márquez’s squad.
