Kolkata: Talented winger Lallianzuala Chhangte emphasised on the importance of teamwork over individual roles within the national squad. Currently placed second in their group with four points from four matches, India are aiming to secure a top-two finish to qualify for Round 3 of the World Cup Qualifiers and earn a spot at the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.
For that they need full points against Kuwait at the Salt Lake Stadium here on June 6.
“Once it comes to the national team, it’s about working together as a team. You can’t rely on one player,” Chhangte said during a media interaction beore the team’s practice session here on Thursday.
Coach Igor Stimac will hope the Mizo player, who was the highest Indian goalscorer (10 goals 15 matches) in the last ISL, will strike against Kuwait and provide good support to Sunil Chhetri, who is set to make his final appearance after being part of the India team for 19 years.
“Everyone is sad. But looking at all his (Chhetri) achievements, we are happy for him as well. We will miss him a lot in the dressing room and what he has done for the country. I hope someone will take responsibility,” added Chhangte, who was adjudged the AIFF Player-of-the-Year in 2023.
He recalled his India debut and how Chhetri boosted him. “The first time I played for India, he called me and told me to be myself to enjoy the game. It’s a privilege to play alongside him. I want to cherish every single training session with him,” he stated.
The forward urged the crowd to come out in huge numbers so that they can give Chhetri a fitting farewell.
“It’s time to honour Chhetri bhai, so we will give our best to win this game. This is a chance to create history by advancing to the next round. We will do everything possible to achieve that and hopefully take all three points,” he said.