Reflecting on his first year in international football, the 28-year-old described his experience with Bangladesh as deeply fulfilling.

David Neo's remarks sparked criticism and overshadowed Singapore's 2-1 win in Hong Kong, which took them to the continent's top competition for the first time since 1984.

With 95 goals in 157 international appearances, Chhetri is the fourth-highest goal scorer in international football, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei.