In a FIFA international friendly held at the JN Stadium in Shillong, the Indian men’s national team demonstrated their dominance by defeating the Maldives 3-0. This was Shillong’s first time hosting international men’s football, demonstrating the state’s advancements in infrastructure and fervent support from supporters. On his comeback from international retirement, Sunil Chhetri scored, and the Indian men’s national football team won for the first time in 489 days under coach Manolo Marquez.
India defeated Maldives in a friendly match, with Rahul Bheke and Liston Colaco scoring goals. The match was a preparation for India’s 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifier against Bangladesh and Maldives’ qualifier against Philippines. India has 13 wins, while Maldives has three. The last meeting between the two sides was in 2021, with India winning 3-1 in the SAFF Championship.
Brandon, however, was badly injured later in the first half, having to be stretchered off and he is now in doubt for the game against Bangladesh. In the second half Mahesh Singh took a corner that Liston (66′) headed in to double the lead. India’s legendary striker Chhetri made a comeback to the national team after 286 days, playing his 152nd match at JN Stadium. The crowd was on the feet in the first minute, but India managed to hold off Maldives goalkeeper Liston and Irfan Yadwad in the 82nd minute, securing a win for India.
