A dream come true to represent India at highest level: Lallianzuala Chhangte

Indian winger Lallianzuala Chhangte has said that it is a dream come true to represent India at the highest level. Chhangte had impressed in ISL 2022-23 season while playing for Mumbai City FC, which helped him earn a call-up to the Indian squad for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup.

The youngster scored 10 goals and provided six assists for the Islanders and played a key role in helping the club secure League Shield Trophy. In the ongoing season, the 26-year-old has scored two goals and has provided as many assists.

“I’m really excited and looking forward to it,” stated Chhangte, speaking to the-aiff.com.

“It’s an honour to be able to represent my country at the highest level. I could not make it to the final squad in 2019, so it really is a dream come true for me to be here now,” he added.

Mizo, as his well-known, added he has grown as a player and as a human being in the last few years.

He shared, “I’ve been more mature as a player and a human being in the last few years, and I think that’s what has helped me get to this stage at the moment.”

“Mostly during the hard times when I would be dropped from the team or suffer injuries (in 2021), I learned so many lessons. It was a very hard time, but it helped me focus on the important things and become a better human. I would not be the player I am today, had I not experienced them. I’m much clearer in my mind about what I have to do,” he elucidated.

Chhangte played an instrumental role in taking Blue Tigers to glory in the Tri-Nation Cup, the Intercontinental Cup, and the SAFF Championship. Furthermore, he played for Mumbai City FC in the AFC Champions League. Chhangte revealed that these experiences have helped him grow as a player.

“You want to look back at the end of your career, and you want to say that you played at the highest level. These memories will stay with you forever. I am fortunate to have had these experiences and to be a part of this Asian Cup squad. It’s a really big thing for me,” beamed Chhangte.

“Having played in the AFC Champions League gave me a feel for how it could be against teams like Australia, Uzbekistan and Syria. We know what to expect and how we need to approach such games. I feel stronger mentally because of them,” he concluded.