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Sunil Chhetri Has Overtaken Lionel Messi As The Second-Highest Active International Goalscorer

Sunil Chhetri Has Overtaken Lionel Messi As The Second-Highest Active International Goalscorer

Sunil Chhetri's might have moved ahead of Lionel Messi, but he still has some serious work to do before he catches up to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Adnan Riaz

Adnan Riaz

India star Sunil Chhetri has pulled away from Lionel Messi to become the second-highest active international scorer.

The Bengaluru forward, 34, captained his side for their clash against Tajikistan in the opening match of the Intercontinental Cup.

And Chhetri found the back of the net twice in their 4-2 loss, with the first coming from the spot kick before he fired in a second ahead of half-time.

Goals from the match have now moved him to 70, which is two more than the Barcelona superstar has scored for Argentina.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains at the top of the list with 88 and added to his tally during Portugal's successful Nations League campaign in June.

Messi experienced a disappointing Copa América campaign as he scored only once for Argentina against Paraguay.

The Argentine ace was sent off during his side's 2-1 victory over Chile in the third-placed playoff and subsequently slammed the competition as 'corrupt.'

"I didn't go to the podium because we shouldn't be part of the corruption and lack of respect," he said.

PA

"We were meant for more, but they didn't let us be in the final.

"The corruption and the refs didn't allow the people to enjoy and football is ruined.

"The corruption and the referees didn't allow us to be in the final. You have to say the truth.

"Brazil [as] champions? No doubt. Sadly, I think the Copa is set up for Brazil."

PA

Messi could miss next year's Copa América in Argentina as he faces a potential two-year international ban for his comments.

Will the five-time Ballon d'Or winner capture any major silverware with Argentina before he retires?

Let us know in the comments.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Football News, Football, Nations League, Lionel Messi, Portugal, Argentina, Copa America, Cristiano Ronaldo