CHHETRI, 41, STILL THE FACE OF INDIAN FOOTBALL

In this series, The Straits Times highlights the players or teams to watch in the world of sport. Today, we focus on Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri, who at 41 is the fourth-highest international goalscorer of all time.

- David Lee

Sunil Chhetri ready to pounce on Singapore's Ryhan Stewart during their 1-1 Asian Cup qualifying draw at the National Stadium on Oct 9. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR

(ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR)

In the world's most populous nation, 41-year-old warhorse Sunil Chhetri is still going strong in his battle to lift Indian football and keep the sport in the spotlight.

While the dream of a maiden World Cup appearance in 2026 is no longer possible, the Indian veteran who came out of international retirement in March continues to be a source of inspiration as the Blue Tigers aim to qualify for a third consecutive Asian Cup.

Speaking to The Straits Times after their 1-1 Asian Cup qualifying draw in Singapore on Oct 9, he said: "I just love playing... For the club, I enjoy playing any time I can be of value. The national team call came and I'm just here to do as much as I can. Whenever I'm called, I'll give my best."

With world No. 134 India hosting the Lions in Goa on Oct 14, he added: "We have to take the Asian Cup qualifiers one game at a time now. We didn't start the campaign as well as we would have liked. (Against Singapore), it was difficult, especially after the first goal and red card.

"They are a decent side and play well at home, so to get the result was quite satisfying. We will go back and hope to get our first win."