Twenty-one-year-old Bhutanese striker, Chencho Gyeltshen, who recently joined Minerva Punjab FC, played his first game against defending champions Rail Coach Factory (RCF) at the ongoing Punjab state league on October 31 in Punjab, India.

Chencho Gyeltshen was on the bench until 63rd minute and replaced the club’s 30-year-old East European forward from Belarus.

Chencho’s coming posed threat to the opponents, local media reported.

The equaliser for the club came from Kassim Aidara, a 30-year-old midfield player from Senegal who was signed a week after Chencho Gyeltshen. Minerva Punjab has six international players, one each from Senegal, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Belarus, Japan, and Bhutan.

Chencho Gyeltshen said that he had a tough time adjusting with the new squad in the beginning. “I am happy with the team now. We know each other well and the players understand my hard work and effort at the training.”

Chencho Gyeltshen, who was signed by Minerva Punjab FC for one season of Hero Indian League, had been training with the club for more than a week. His contract with the club ends May next year.

Chencho Gyeltshen said that it is a dream come true to play in the league. “My expectations from the club are high. I will give hundred percent to open myself for Indian Super League.”

Chencho Gyeltshen is the only Bhutanese footballer playing with the international club.

Nima