AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: The All India Football Federation condoles the demise of former India international Narendra Thapa, who passed away on Friday, August 5, 2022 due to cardiac arrest. Thapa was a part of the Indian side that qualified for the AFC Asian Cup Singapore 1984.

Thapa who made his international debut against China at Cochin in the 1983 Nehru Cup, represented India in 29 official international matches, and scored three goals.

His winning goal in India’s 1-0 triumph over Algeria in the 1984 Great Wall Cup in Beijing stayed one the highest points of his career, as the Algerian side comprised the Algerian World Cup squad which had played in the 1982 Espana World Cup.

AIFF acting General Secretary Mr. Sunando Dhar said: “It is sad to hear that Mr. Thapa is no more. He was a key player in the Indian team during his time, and his contribution to Indian Football can never be forgotten. He has been an inspiring figure for people across generations. My condolences to his family, and prayers for his soul to rest in peace.”

At the domestic level, Narendra Thapa had represented Bengal and won the Santosh Trophy in 1986. He had also played for two of the Kolkata giants, Mohammedan Sporting and Mohun Bagan, winning a number of titles like the Federation Cup, Rovers Cup, IFA Shield, etc.