KOLKATA, India: India’s record goal-getter Sunil Chhetri said that he is just one of the players who will play against Bangladesh in a crucial Group E fixture 2022 FIFA World and 2023 Asian Cup joint qualifier on Tuesday.
With Chhetri back in action after missing out against Qatar last month due to viral infection, Bangladesh are cautious of his presence.
Focus on Chhetri
But the ‘veteran’ said on the match eve that there are others players in the side who are capable of outperforming him.
“It was never about me. It will be never about me. I’m just one of the 23 players. I’ve been lucky to have a little bit more experience and that’s about it,” said Chhetri.
“It’s always about India versus Bangladesh. We are one and we play like one.”
Draw against Qatar boosts confidence
India has lost one and drew one including the famous 0-0 result against the Asian champions Qatar at their own backyard in Doha last month.
“It was because of my absence that the team played good against Qatar, the players keep reminding me,” said the 35-year-old.
Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who led the team in Doha, put up a heroic show in Chhetri’s absence.
Secret to team’s success
The Bengaluru FC player said the secret to team’s success is coach Igor Stimac.
“The importance of who’s going to play is so less. The important thing is that the team is going to play under him Stimac. He has come with no prejudice,” he added.
First meeting in 1978
Both the teams played for first time in 1978 Asian Games. India won 3-0 with goals from Prasun Banerjee, Mohammed Akbar and Surojit Sengupta scripted a memorable victory.
Prasun also scored both the goals when India defeated their neighbours at the 1982 Asian Games in Delhi.
The Jamie Day-coached Bangladesh have made it clear that India will start as favourites with Chhetri being the main threat.
“I hope four people mark me. I will try to be as best that I can be. But if they want to mark. It’s good because we’ve better players. You will see them tomorrow,” added Chhetri.
