Daijiworld Media Network - Dhaka
Dhaka, Nov 19: In a major setback for Indian football, the Blue Tigers suffered their first defeat to Bangladesh in 22 years, going down 0-1 in an inconsequential Group C clash of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers at the packed National Stadium here on Tuesday.
The lone goal of the match came as early as the 11th minute, when Sheikh Morsalin found the back of the net to send the home crowd into wild celebration. Though the result had no bearing on qualification — with both teams already out of contention — the defeat dealt a blow to India’s pride and ongoing rebuilding efforts.
India had their best chance in the 31st minute. Bangladesh goalkeeper Mitul Marma stepped out of position, allowing Lallianzuala Chhangte a clear shot from the top of the box. But Hamza Choudhury produced a stunning goal-line header to deny India the equaliser.
An intense moment of pushing and shoving between players of both teams near the touchline broke the rhythm of the first half, but the referee swiftly restored order.
India last lost to Bangladesh in the 2003 SAFF Gold Cup, also in Dhaka. Since then, India remained unbeaten for nine matches — a streak that ended on Tuesday night.
Bleak Campaign Comes to an End
India’s Asian Cup dreams had practically ended on October 14, after they surrendered a 1-0 advantage to lose 1-2 to Singapore in Margao.
With the latest defeat, India remain anchored at the bottom of the four-team group, with only two points from five outings — three losses and two draws. Bangladesh climbed to third place with five points, registering their first win of the qualifiers. The first-leg meeting between the two sides in Shillong had ended goalless.
Earlier in the day, Singapore’s 2-1 win over Hong Kong secured them the top spot in Group C with 11 points, sealing qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup. Hong Kong are second with eight points.
India are currently ranked 136th in the FIFA rankings, while Bangladesh stand at 183rd.
India head coach Khalid Jamil made several tactical changes in the second half, bringing on Mahesh Singh Naorem, whose creativity added spark to India’s attack.
Mahesh immediately made inroads, troubling the Bangladesh backline repeatedly. A well-delivered free kick by Suresh Wangjam was headed goalwards by Rahul Bheke, with Rahim Ali ready to tap it in, but the hosts managed to avert the danger.
Debutant Mohammed Sanan also impressed, using skill and movement to carve out chances. In the 66th minute, Sanan cut in beautifully from the left after a dummy but saw his effort saved. Moments later, he floated a pinpoint cross to Brison Fernandes, who headed wide.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, threatened on counter-attacks and nearly doubled their lead in the 79th minute, when Topu Barman’s long-range strike was safely gathered by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
Despite India’s late surge, the Bangladesh defence held firm to clinch a morale-boosting victory.
Australia-born forward Ryan Williams, who recently acquired an Indian passport, was not included in the match-day squad. Although he has received clearance from Football Australia, he is still awaiting FIFA’s final approval for registration.
India will play their final Group C match against Hong Kong at home on March 31, 2026.