Wed Mar 19 13:20:00 UTC 2025: ## India Thrash Maldives 3-0 in Shillong Friendly, Chhetri Returns to Score

**SHILLONG, INDIA** – India secured a convincing 3-0 victory over the Maldives in an international friendly match held in Shillong, marking the first time an international football game has been hosted in the city. The win serves as a crucial warm-up for India ahead of their crucial 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying match against Bangladesh on March 25th.

Sunil Chhetri, coaxed out of retirement by coach Manolo Marquez due to India’s recent goal-scoring drought, marked his return with a goal, his 95th for the national team. The veteran captain scored a delicate header in the 76th minute, adding to goals from Rahul Bheke and Liston Colaco, both of which came from corner kicks. Bheke’s goal, scored in the 35th minute, gave India the lead before half-time.

While the victory was a positive for India, the team suffered a setback with an injury to Brandon Fernandes in the first half. Despite the injury, India dominated the match, creating numerous scoring opportunities and enjoying significant possession.

The match saw the debut of several players for the Indian national team, including Boris Singh Thangjam and Abhishek Singh. Chhetri was substituted in the 82nd minute, to a muted celebration, after his impressive return to international football.

The result will boost India’s confidence as they prepare for the critical clash against Bangladesh, but the injury to Fernandes casts a shadow over their preparations. Coach Marquez will need to reassess his strategy in light of the injury, hoping to maintain the momentum gained from the impressive friendly victory.

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