Dhaka, Nov 18 (NationPress) In a disappointing turn of events, India faced a narrow 0-1 loss against the home team Bangladesh in their AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Group C clash at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday. Shekh Morsalin netted the lone goal in the first half (12’), securing the victory for the hosts, despite a fierce offensive by the Blue Tigers in the latter half. Earlier, Singapore triumphed over Hong Kong, China 2-1, solidifying its position at the top of the group with 11 points, and earning a spot in the Asian Cup. Currently, Hong Kong holds second place with eight points, while Bangladesh and India are third and fourth with five and two points, respectively.

On this noteworthy occasion, Lallianzuala Chhangte marked his 50th international appearance, and head coach Khalid Jamil introduced Mohammed Sanan and Lalremtluanga Fanai, who made their debuts as substitutes.

After a dynamic start at the National Stadium, Bangladesh capitalized on a counter-attack following an India long throw. Rakib Hossain sprinted down the left flank, delivering a low cross to an unmarked Morsalin, who successfully slotted it past India’s goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

Though caught off guard, India quickly regained their composure and began forming offensive plays. Suresh Singh Wangjam mishit a shot from outside the box in the 17th minute after seizing a clearance, while Nikhil Prabhu had a long-range attempt blocked shortly thereafter.

India's best opportunity arrived just after the half-hour mark when striker Rahim Ali pressured Bangladesh’s goalkeeper Mitul Marma and regained possession. He set up Macarton Louis Nickson, who laid it off for Lallianzuala Chhangte to strike at an unguarded goal. However, Hamza Choudhury of Bangladesh intervened, blocking the shot.

As India grew in confidence, so did their offensive efforts. In the 35th minute, Anwar Ali made contact with a corner from Chhangte, but it was cleared yet again. Moments later, Anwar flicked on a long throw from Rahul Bheke for Rahim, who attempted an audacious back-volley but ended up mishitting it.

Choudhury attempted a volley just before halftime, but sent it wide of the target.

Emerging from the break with renewed determination, India made a substitution, bringing on Mahesh Singh Naorem for Prabhu. This change had an immediate effect, as Mahesh's creativity began to test Bangladesh’s defense.

A free-kick taken by Suresh from the left was headed towards the goal by Bheke, with Rahim poised to capitalize. However, Bangladesh's defenders managed to avert the danger just before Rahim could reach the ball.

The introduction of Sanan further invigorated India's attack, as he displayed skill and awareness on the left. After receiving a pass from Rahim in the 66th minute, Sanan deceived his defender to cut inside for a shot, but was denied by a save.

Just a minute later, Sanan delivered a splendid cross from the left aimed at an open Brison Fernandes, who headed it off target. With around 15 minutes remaining, Sanan found himself in another advantageous position after a corner melee, firing a side-foot volley towards the bottom corner, but Marma reacted swiftly to tip it away.

In response to India’s offensive, Bangladesh sought to double their advantage, coming close in the 79th minute when Topu Barman's shot from outside the box was safely gathered by a diving Gurpreet.

As Bangladesh pursued a second goal, India launched counter-attacks of their own. One such effort in the 84th minute saw Vikram Partap Singh and Brison Fernandes surge towards the Bangladesh goal, with Vikram being pulled back as the action continued.

Despite a frantic finish, Bangladesh's defense remained resolute, ultimately securing three points against the Blue Tigers.

India will face Hong Kong in their final match of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round on March 31, 2026.