Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Bangalore: Sunil Chhetri’s match-winning display delighted JSW Bengaluru FC head coach Albert Roca as they became the first Indian side to reach the AFC Cup final.
The Indian international starred for the victors with a goal either side of half-time as he led them to a semi-final second leg 3-1 win at home to advance 4-2 on aggregate at the expense of dethroned champions Johor Darul Ta’zim.
“As the captain, Sunil Chhetri set the right example for everyone here,” said Roca. “From the first day, he was really dedicated and focused. He’s a big part of what we achieved tonight.
“Sunil’s commitment was so big that he could play anywhere on the pitch. When I told him he was going to score from the middle coming in from the inside, he went on to produce that incredible goal [in the second half].”
The Spaniard also hailed his side’s desire to win in front of a record turnout at home as another major factor behind their success.