Bhaichung Bhutia’s incredible performance in the 2003 LG ASEAN Cup remains one of the most remarkable individual feats in Indian football history. On 16th July 2003, during a group stage match in Jakarta, Indonesia, Bhaichung Bhutia scored six goals for East Bengal against Army FC of the Philippines, achieving a double hat-trick (scoring six goals in a single match).
Scoring six goals in a single match is an extraordinary achievement, and Bhutia’s double hat-trick was a first for Indian football at the time. His ability to find the back of the net six times in one game showcased his exceptional goal-scoring instincts, technical ability, and physical fitness.
Bhutia’s goals were a mix of clinical finishes, smart positioning, and composure in front of goal. He demonstrated his ability to score in a variety of ways, further solidifying his reputation as one of India’s best strikers. The match took place during the LG ASEAN Cup, an international club competition featuring teams from Southeast Asia and beyond. East Bengal was one of the top teams in India, and Bhutia’s performance against Army FC added to their dominance.
East Bengal won the match 7-0, with Bhutia contributing all six goals, making it a one-sided affair. His display of individual brilliance was the key reason for the huge scoreline and led to East Bengal’s resounding victory. This performance was significant not only because of the six goals but also because it put Indian football on the map in international club competitions. Bhutia’s performance against a Southeast Asian club team drew attention from the international football community and helped elevate the profile of Indian players in regional football.
Bhutia’s clinical finishing and overall performance during this game were also a testament to the quality of Indian football, particularly at the club level, where East Bengal and teams from other regions were beginning to make their mark.
Bhutia is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers India has ever produced. His incredible skills, leadership, and contributions to Indian football, both at the club and national level, earned him the nickname “The Sikkimese Sniper” for his precision and finishing ability.
His six-goal performance in the 2003 LG ASEAN Cup is just one of many highlights in his illustrious career. Bhutia had a profound impact on Indian football, helping raise its profile internationally and serving as an inspiration for young players across the country.He later received numerous accolades, including the Arjuna Award (2003) and the Padma Shri (2008), and continued to serve as a role model for aspiring footballers in India.
This historic performance was a milestone for East Bengal, a club with a storied history in Indian football, and helped establish them as a powerhouse in the region. For Indian football, it was a moment of pride, demonstrating that Indian players could compete at a high level in international competitions and make a significant impact.
Bhaichung Bhutia’s double hat-trick against Army FC of the Philippines in the 2003 LG ASEAN Cup will always be remembered as one of the greatest individual performances in Indian football. His six goals not only secured a massive win for East Bengal but also marked a defining moment in Indian football history. Bhutia’s legacy continues to inspire generations of footballers in India and beyond.
