By Aditya
July 19, 2025
This National Football Day, we celebrate the Indian footballers whose big dreams led them to international success.
From MLS to the Champions League, here are 6 Indians who put the tricolour on the world football map.
After training with Sporting CP in Portugal and being signed by MLS team Kansas City Wizards, Chhetri opened doors for Indian footballers to play professionally abroad.
I scored for Zidane's XI in a charity match alongside legends such as Kaká and Figo – an unforgettable night for Indian football
Making history between the posts, he became the first Indian to play in the UEFA Europa League, representing Stabæk.
First Indian woman to play in England’s pro league with West Ham Ladies. A barrier-breaking moment.
Scored in Scotland's top league with Rangers—first Indian woman to net in Europe.
Scored in the UEFA Women's Champions League for Apollon Ladies. A true rising star.
The highly respected captain of India and a nominee for the 2019 AFC Player of the Year, he epitomises true leadership.