Sunil Chhetri and Jeje Lalpekhlua are two of the most prominent names in Indian football. Both have been crucial to the success of the Indian national team, and their goal-scoring records reflect their importance in the country’s footballing landscape.
Sunil Chhetri (69 Goals)
Full Name: Sunil Chhetri
Nationality: Indian
Position: Striker / Forward
Sunil Chhetri is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in Indian football history and has been the face of the Indian national team for over a decade. With 69 goals, he is India’s all-time top scorer and one of the highest-scoring players in international football among active players (only behind the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and a few others in terms of goal count for national teams).
International Success: Chhetri has been the star player for the Indian national team, leading the team through important tournaments like the AFC Asian Cup and SAFF Championship.
He has been a consistent goal-scorer for India in competitive international matches, and his leadership on the field has been instrumental in India’s success in the SAFF Championship, which India has won multiple times during his tenure.
Club Career: Chhetri has also had a remarkable club career, playing for clubs like Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Kansas City Wizards (USA), and Bengaluru FC. He has been incredibly successful at the club level as well, winning multiple Indian Super League (ISL) titles with Bengaluru FC.
Playing Style: Known for his clinical finishing, versatility, and leadership, Chhetri is a dynamic player who has proven to be effective both as a goal-scorer and as a playmaker. He is especially known for his ability to score goals in crucial moments and has often been India’s savior in tight matches.
Iconic Figure: Chhetri’s impact extends beyond his goal tally. He has become an ambassador for Indian football, inspiring the younger generation with his work ethic, determination, and passion for the sport.
International Records: With 69 goals, Chhetri ranks among the top goal-scorers in international football. His goal tally places him among the most prolific scorers in Asian football, and he continues to play an essential role for India.
Jeje Lalpekhlua (39 Goals)
Full Name: Jeje Lalpekhlua
Nationality: Indian
Position: Striker
Jeje Lalpekhlua is another key figure in Indian football and has been a reliable striker for both India and his clubs in the Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League. With 39 goals, Jeje has made his mark as one of the country’s most consistent and talented strikers.
National Team Contribution: Jeje was a significant player for the Indian national team, particularly in the 2010s. He played in key tournaments such as the SAFF Championship and the AFC Asian Cup, often scoring in important matches. His performances during the SAFF Championship were especially vital to India’s victories.
Club Career: Jeje has enjoyed a successful career at the club level, playing for various clubs including Mohun Bagan, Chennaiyin FC, and Mizoram-based clubs. His goal-scoring abilities were a major factor in his team’s success.
At Chennaiyin FC, Jeje played a crucial role in their 2015 ISL title win and has often been a key player in the ISL seasons.
He also played an important role in the I-League, contributing to his teams’ successes and consistently being among the top goal-scorers in the league.
Jeje is known for his strong physical presence, aerial ability, and finishing. His ability to score with both feet and his head makes him a versatile striker.
He has also been praised for his link-up play and has been a reliable figure in attack for both club and country.
Sunil Chhetri: 69 goals for India (all-time top scorer)
Jeje Lalpekhlua: 39 goals for India
While Chhetri has an impressive tally of 69 goals, Jeje has still contributed significantly with 39 goals. Chhetri’s goal-scoring record is unparalleled in Indian football, but Jeje has been a dependable figure for India as well.
Sunil Chhetri has played more games for the Indian national team and is the captain, leading the team to success in multiple regional tournaments. His contributions on the international stage are unmatched.
Jeje Lalpekhlua was an important player during his time with the national team and has scored in key matches, but his appearances for India have been fewer compared to Chhetri.
Sunil Chhetri has had a standout club career in both the I-League and the ISL, playing for top clubs like Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Bengaluru FC. He has won multiple ISL titles and is one of the most successful Indian club players in recent times.
Jeje Lalpekhlua has also had a successful career, particularly with Chennaiyin FC, where he won an ISL title in 2015, and his impact in the I-League has also been notable.
Sunil Chhetri is considered a legend of Indian football. His leadership, consistency, and contribution to the growth of football in India are unparalleled. He is not just the top scorer for India but also one of the most beloved and influential figures in Indian football.
Jeje Lalpekhlua, while not as prolific as Chhetri, has still played a vital role for India and remains one of the important goal-scoring forwards in the country’s football history.
Sunil Chhetri is the all-time leading goal scorer for India with 69 goals and has had an exceptional career both at the international level and in club football.
Jeje Lalpekhlua, with 39 goals, has also been a crucial player for India, contributing to important wins in regional tournaments and being a reliable striker for his clubs in both the I-League and ISL.
While Chhetri is the undoubted leader and icon of Indian football, Jeje has carved his own niche as one of the country’s most important strikers. Together, they represent the strength and future of Indian football, both on the international stage and in domestic football.
