Sunil Chhetri, the iconic captain of the Indian national football team, has reached a staggering career milestone of 272 goals for club and country.
As of late 2025, the 41-year-old forward remains the most prolific goal-scorer in the history of Indian football, standing as the fourth-highest international scorer in the world among active men’s players.
His remarkable journey includes 95 international goals for India and 177 strikes across various prestigious domestic and international clubs. This updated tally is a testament to the discipline and longevity of a true sporting icon who continues to lead the Blue Tigers after coming out of a brief retirement.
International Scoring Record
Sunil Chhetri’s international career is the stuff of legends, placing him in the elite company of global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Since his debut against Pakistan in 2005, Chhetri has found the net 95 times in 157 appearances for the national team.
His scoring prowess has been the backbone of India’s successes in the Nehru Cup, SAFF Championship, and the AFC Challenge Cup. Even in 2025, Chhetri’s influence remains undeniable; AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey recently remarked, “Sunil’s leadership and predatory instincts are indispensable as we navigate the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.”
Career Across Continents
While his international exploits are widely celebrated, Chhetri’s club career is equally impressive, with 177 goals in 402 professional appearances. His journey began with Mohun Bagan in 2002 and took him to clubs like East Bengal, JCT, and Dempo.
He was a pioneer for Indian football abroad, signing with the Kansas City Wizards in the USA and Sporting CP’s reserve team in Portugal.
However, his most fruitful years have been with Bengaluru FC, where he has become the club’s all-time leading scorer. His 14 goals in the 2024-2025 Indian Super League season alone highlight his ability to outclass much younger defenders.
Milestone Moments
Since joining Bengaluru FC in 2013, Chhetri has scored over 130 goals for the club across all competitions. He has guided the “Blues” to I-League titles, Federation Cups, and the Indian Super League trophy.
His ability to perform under pressure was most evident during the 2016 AFC Cup campaign, where his braces helped the club reach a historic final.
As he continues his tenure into the 2025-2026 season, he remains the leading Indian goal-scorer in ISL history. National coach Manolo Márquez recently noted that Chhetri’s work ethic in training serves as the perfect blueprint for the next generation of Indian strikers.
A Career Of Resilience
What sets Sunil Chhetri apart is his unparalleled professionalism. Maintaining a peak scoring form at 41 is a feat rarely seen in global football. His 272 career goals were scored through a mix of poetic headers, long-range screamers, and calm penalties.
His return to the national squad in early 2025, following a heartfelt meeting with Lionel Messi during the ‘GOAT India Tour’, underscored his enduring passion for the sport. Chhetri’s career is a masterclass in body management and mental strength, proving that passion can indeed overcome the physical barriers of age.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Sunil Chhetri is more than a footballer; he is a beacon of hope for a nation striving for global footballing recognition. His 272 goals represent decades of sacrifice, perseverance, and an unbreakable bond with Indian fans.
We believe that his legacy is a reminder that excellence knows no geographical boundaries. Through his humility and leadership, he has taught us that true greatness is measured by how much you elevate those around you.
As he continues to defy the odds, we celebrate his journey as an inspiration for every young Indian athlete who dares to dream of the world stage.
