Singapore, Oct 9 (NationPress) Rahim Ali's stunning late equaliser enabled India to secure a vital point against Singapore, resulting in a 1-1 draw during their third-round match of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers at the National Stadium in Kallang on Thursday.

This outcome lifted India to third place in the group standings, accumulating two points from three matches, while Singapore held onto the top spot with five points. The match was characterized by fluctuating momentum, highlighted by two key incidents—one just before half-time and another in the dying moments.

With the home crowd cheering them on, Singapore started strong and appeared more dangerous in their offensive maneuvers. Their efforts bore fruit in first-half stoppage time when Ikhsan Fandi broke the deadlock.

Fandi, who had scored against India in their previous encounter in 2022, showcased his prowess again. After a clever link-up with Shawal Anuar, he calmly slotted the ball past Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, giving the hosts a well-deserved 1-0 lead.

Things took a turn for the worse for India shortly after the break. Just two minutes into the second half, centre-back Sandesh Jhingan received a second yellow card for a late challenge, forcing India to play the remaining 43 minutes with only ten men. This setback compelled India to adopt a more defensive strategy, absorbing pressure while relying on counterattacks as Singapore sought to extend their advantage.

However, complacency crept into the hosts' gameplay late in the match, allowing India to seize the opportunity. Substitute Rahim Ali, who had come on to inject fresh energy into the attack, relentlessly pursued the Singapore backline and chased after loose balls.

His determination paid off in the 90th minute when a poorly judged pass from Singapore goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud allowed Rahim to capitalize. The forward composed himself and slotted into an empty net, marking his first senior international goal and igniting jubilant celebrations among the Indian squad.

This late equaliser ensured India avoided a second consecutive defeat in the campaign and kept their qualification hopes intact. The two teams will clash again on October 14, when India hosts Singapore at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa—a match that could be pivotal in determining the final standings of Group C.