Top 5 Greatest Indian Football Goalkeepers of All Time

In Indian football, goalkeepers have long stood as the last line of defence—often the first to be blamed in defeat and rarely the first to be praised in victory. While strikers and midfielders bask in the limelight for their flair and goals, the custodians between the posts remain unsung heroes, quietly pulling off crucial saves, stopping penalties, and at times, single-handedly keeping their teams in the game.

However, with the rising competitiveness of the Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League, and a renewed emphasis on youth development, the role of the goalkeeper is undergoing a transformation—technically, tactically, and mentally.

From the fearless Subrata Paul, who emerged as a standout figure in the 2000s, to the commanding presence of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu in recent years, Indian football has seen a steady evolution of talent between the posts.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most important goalkeepers who have proudly worn the Indian national team jersey.

Hemanta Dora

Hemanta Dora was regarded as one of India’s most dependable goalkeepers during the 1990s. Known for his calm presence between the posts and exceptional reflexes, he represented the Indian national team in several major international tournaments, including the 1997 Nehru Cup and the 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok.

At the domestic level, Dora played for some of India's most iconic football clubs, including East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. His standout performances were instrumental in helping Mohun Bagan clinch the 1997–98 National Football League title.

Even after retiring from professional football, Dora has remained deeply involved in the sport. As a goalkeeping coach, he continues to mentor the next generation, instilling in them the same discipline and dedication that defined his illustrious playing career.

Atanu Bhattacharya

Atanu Bhattacharya is regarded as one of India’s finest goalkeepers, with over a decade of experience representing the national team. He was a key figure in India's campaign at the 1984 AFC Asian Cup and kept an impressive 10 clean sheets during his international career. A natural leader on the field, he also had the honour of captaining the Indian national team. In recognition of his outstanding performances, he was named to the prestigious Asian All-Star team in 1985.

On the domestic front, Atanu was a stalwart in Kolkata football, playing for all three of the city’s legendary clubs — Mohun Bagan, Mohammedan Sporting, and East Bengal — spending around five years at each. His consistency and skill made him a fan favourite across rival camps, a rare feat in Indian football.

Following his retirement as a player, Atanu transitioned seamlessly into coaching. He served as the goalkeeping coach for the Indian national team and had coaching stints with Mohun Bagan in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Later, between 2009 and 2013, he took charge as goalkeeping coach at East Bengal, where he helped the club win an impressive nine trophies in just four seasons.

Peter Thangaraj

Peter Thangaraj was a towering figure in Indian football during the 1950s and 1960s, representing the nation in several prestigious tournaments, including the Olympics and the Asian Games. Widely regarded as the finest goalkeeper India has ever produced, Thangaraj's remarkable performances earned him widespread acclaim and lasting respect.

Over the course of his international career, Thangaraj kept 15 clean sheets in 55 appearances for the Indian national team—a feat that places him third on the all-time list for most clean sheets by a Blue Tigers goalkeeper. Renowned for his commanding presence, sharp reflexes, and unwavering consistency between the posts, he was a vital pillar during one of the most defining eras in Indian football history.

Subrata Paul

Subrata Paul stands as one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation, known for his consistency and resilience in Indian football. Throughout his international career, he earned 67 caps for the Indian national team. His 18 clean sheets at the international level are a testament to his skill and composure, placing him among the top goalkeepers ever to wear the Blue Tigers jersey.

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu holds the record for the most clean sheets by an Indian football team goalkeeper, with 28 clean sheets in 73 appearances. He is also the first and only Indian footballer to have played in the UEFA Europa League, marking a significant milestone in Indian football history. Over the years, Gurpreet has played a pivotal role in India's successes in major tournaments, including the SAFF Championship and the Intercontinental Cup.

Cover Credits - AIFF