Sunil Chhetri Nets 95th Goal as India Dominates Maldives with 3-0 Victory

Shillong, Meghalaya: Indian football fans had a night to remember as the Blue Tigers registered a commanding 3-0 win against Maldives in a FIFA International Friendly at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on March 19, 2025. This match marked India’s first international victory in 15 months and their first triumph under Spanish head coach Manolo Márquez.

Sunil Chhetri scores 95th international goal

as India beats Maldives 3-0 in FIFA Friendly

at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. 

X/@Indianfootball

The game saw a clinical performance from India, who led 1-0 at half-time before sealing the win with two more goals in the second half. Goals from Rahul Bheke (34’), Liston Colaco (66’), and a historic 95th international goal from captain Sunil Chhetri (76’) ensured India’s dominance over their South Asian rivals.

Sunil Chhetri’s Record-Breaking Night

Skipper Sunil Chhetri stole the limelight as he scored his 95th international goal, further cementing his legacy as India’s greatest footballer. The veteran striker, playing his 152nd international match, showcased his class with a perfectly timed header off a Liston Colaco cross in the 76th minute, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

His return to the national squad after 286 days was met with roaring applause, and he did not disappoint. Chhetri was involved in multiple attacking moves early in the match, displaying his trademark agility and vision. In the first minute itself, he nearly set up an opener with a brilliant cross, but Naorem Mahesh Singh missed the chance.

In the 14th minute, Chhetri almost created another opportunity with a delicate header across the Maldives goalmouth, but none of the Indian attackers could capitalize on it.

India’s Complete Dominance Over Maldives

From the start, India controlled possession and kept the pressure on Maldives. With Liston Colaco, Naorem Mahesh Singh, and Brandon Fernandes orchestrating the attacks, the Blue Tigers frequently tested the Maldives defense.

Despite India’s offensive prowess, the Maldives defenders displayed resilience, blocking and clearing attacks. In the 25th minute, a stunning strike from Colaco was brilliantly saved by Maldives goalkeeper Hussain Shareef, denying India an early second goal.

However, India finally broke through in the 34th minute. Brandon Fernandes delivered a pinpoint corner from the left, and seasoned defender Rahul Bheke rose high to head the ball into the net with precision. The goal gave India a well-deserved lead and set the tone for a dominant second half.

Second-Half Brilliance

India continued their attacking momentum after the break, keeping Maldives on the back foot. In the 66th minute, Liston Colaco opened his international goal tally with a fine header from a Naorem Mahesh Singh corner, doubling India’s advantage.

The decisive moment came in the 76th minute when Sunil Chhetri’s brilliance shone through. Colaco’s precise cross from the left found Chhetri in the box, and with his signature poise, he guided the ball into the net with a swift header, sealing India’s 3-0 victory.

Chhetri Exits to a Hero’s Applause

In the 82nd minute, coach Manolo Márquez substituted Chhetri, bringing on Irfan Yadwad. As the Indian captain walked off the field, he received a standing ovation from the packed stadium, a testament to his enduring impact on Indian football. India maintained control for the remainder of the game, comfortably seeing off the final minutes.

Looking Ahead: India vs Bangladesh in AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers

This victory serves as a confidence booster for India as they prepare to face Bangladesh in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers on March 25 at the same venue. With Chhetri in sublime form and young talents like Liston Colaco making an impact, Indian football fans have plenty to be excited about.

Match Summary:

India 3-0 Maldives

Goals: Rahul Bheke (34’), Liston Colaco (66’), Sunil Chhetri (76’)

India’s Playing XI: Vishal Kaith (GK), Rahul Bheke, Subhasish Bose (Abhishek Singh Tekcham 82'), Mehtab Singh, Liston Colaco (Ashique Kuruniyan 82'), Suresh Singh Wangjam (Lalengmawia 60'), Brandon Fernandes (Farukh Choudhary 42’), Sunil Chhetri (C) (Irfan Yadwad 82'), Ayush Chhetri, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Hmingthanmawia Ralte (Boris Singh Thangjam 60').

Conclusion

India’s emphatic 3-0 win over Maldives highlights their resurgence in international football. Sunil Chhetri’s 95th goal, coupled with solid performances from Bheke and Colaco, showcased India’s growing strength under coach Manolo Márquez. As they gear up for the crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers against Bangladesh, the Blue Tigers will look to build on this momentum and continue their winning form.

FAQs:

1.     Who scored for India in the 3-0 win against the Maldives?

Rahul Bheke, Liston Colaco, and Sunil Chhetri scored for India.

2.     How many international goals has Sunil Chhetri scored?

Sunil Chhetri has now scored 95 international goals.

3.     When did India last win an international football match before this?

India ended a 15-month winless streak with this victory.

4.     Who was India's head coach during the match against Maldives?

Spanish coach Manolo Márquez led India in this match.

5.     Where was the India vs Maldives FIFA Friendly played?

The match was held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong.

6.     Who was named the Player of the Match in India's win over Maldives?

Liston Colaco was awarded the Player of the Match.

7.     When is India’s next match after beating Maldives?

India will face Bangladesh on March 25 in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers.

8.     How did Sunil Chhetri score his goal against Maldives?

Chhetri scored with a swift header from a Liston Colaco cross.

9.     Which goalkeeper played for India in the Maldives match?

Vishal Kaith was India's goalkeeper in the match.

10.  How did India dominate Maldives in the FIFA Friendly?

India controlled possession, created multiple chances, and scored three goals to secure a convincing win.