Sham Sataiya Chetty: Emerging New Zealand Defender shines in Portugal, aims for World Cup 2026

In football, all epic quests begin with a bold stride and Sham Sataiya Chetty has made his from the remotest corners of Tauranga, New Zealand to the tough soccer fields of Portugal. The 25-year-old fullback is gradually building a name for himself in Europe, converting raw ability and relentless work ethic into career momentum.

Born on 13th December 2000, Chetty possesses dual nationality of New Zealand and Fiji, an aspect that brings cultural depth and competitive fervor to his play. Representing ADCF Santo André in Portugal, he has become a silent strength for the team, catching people’s eye in the 2024/2025 season.

During the 2024/2025 season at ADCF Santo André, Sham Sataiya Chetty featured in 27 matches, with 6 assists among other things, while being highly defensive. Chetty poses no threat as a goal scorer, but he is useful for creating chances and marshaling the game from the defense. With 6 assists in the season so far, he has demonstrated excellent skill in coming forward to support the attack and delivering timely demanded of the contemporary fullback.

Immigrating to Portugal from New Zealand is not common, but Chetty took the chance. Portugal is now an unseen doorway for dedicated and diligent ability in pursuit of more European experience. To battle technically astute opposition has sharpened his defensive awareness and improved transition football.

Since he joined Portugal, Chetty has developed from a potential player into an experienced defender in Europe with a CV that is now getting noticed back home.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup around the corner, New Zealand national teams (All Whites) desire to strengthen their squad with developing overseas talents. Chetty’s name entered scouting lanes thanks to: European league experience, Strong defensive discipline, Positional versatility and Maturity and professionalism.

With his pattern of improvement on course, Sham Sataiya Chetty can be a strong candidate for a national team call-up, offering New Zealand a reliable fullback player as they seek qualification on the international stage.

Chetty’s improvement is a clear sign of aspiration and belief. With continued development in Portugal and increased recognition from international football circles, his second breakthrough to prominence may soon be achieved.

“I’m committed to working harder every season. My dream is to represent New Zealand at the highest stage and inspire young footballers from home,” Chetty shared in a recent interview.

Sham Sataiya Chetty is not just another overseas footballer he is a defender on the rise, a future national team prospect, and a story of ambition from the Pacific to Europe.