India’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round campaign began on an unconvincing note as the Blue Tigers were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Bangladesh in their opening Group C fixture at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Despite enjoying periods of dominance, particularly in the second half, Manolo Márquez’s men failed to find the back of the net, leaving them with a challenging path ahead against Singapore and Hong Kong.
The other group fixture between Singapore and Hong Kong also ended in a goalless draw, leaving all four teams tied with a single point each after the first round of matches.
Table of Contents
Early Scares for India as Bangladesh Shows Intent
The visitors came out with a purpose, pressing high and capitalizing on early defensive lapses. Within seconds of kickoff, Bangladesh nearly grabbed the lead when Indian goalkeeper Vishal Kaith’s unconvincing clearance fell straight to Md Mojibor Jony, whose powerful strike rattled the side netting.
Moments later, Bangladesh launched another attack as Md Shakil Topu surged down the right flank, sending in a teasing cross for Md Shariar Emon, whose header sailed just over the bar. The visitors continued to probe the Indian backline, forcing an early goalline clearance from Subhasish Bose following another nervy moment from Kaith.
India Gains Control but Lacks Cutting Edge
After weathering the initial onslaught, the Blue Tigers gradually found their rhythm. The midfield, led by Lalengmawia Ralte and Udanta Singh, started dictating the tempo, allowing India to push forward and create opportunities.
Liston Colaco was the first to test Bangladesh’s goalkeeper Mitul Marma, but his right-footed attempt lacked the venom to beat the custodian. The best chance of the half arrived at the 30-minute mark when Farukh Choudhary found himself in a one-on-one situation following a headed pass from Udanta. However, his shot was comfortably smothered by Marma, keeping the score level.
Bangladesh nearly punished India just before halftime when Jony broke free on the right wing, only to be denied by a quick reaction save from Kaith, making up for his earlier errors.
Second-Half Pressure but No Breakthrough
India resumed the second half with renewed energy, pushing forward in search of the elusive goal. Colaco continued to be a threat down the left flank, delivering a precise cross in the 54th minute that found Sunil Chhetri in the box. However, the Indian captain, despite his trademark sharp movement, failed to make clean contact.
Chhetri was again involved minutes later, rising for an aerial duel inside the penalty area but was halted by a strong shoulder challenge from Bangladesh’s defensive midfielder Hamza Choudhury. The former English league player proved pivotal for the visitors, effectively orchestrating both defensive and offensive transitions.
Tougher Challenges Await India
Despite their sustained attacking efforts, India could not breach Bangladesh’s resilient defense. Márquez’s tactical adjustments, including the introduction of fresh legs, did not yield the desired impact, and as the final whistle blew, the home side was left to rue missed opportunities.
With two tricky fixtures against Singapore and Hong Kong ahead, India will need to sharpen their finishing and tighten defensive lapses if they are to progress from Group C. Márquez’s men will have little time to dwell on the stalemate as they gear up for their next crucial encounter.
This goalless draw serves as a wake-up call for the Blue Tigers, emphasizing the need for greater precision in front of goal as they navigate their qualification journey.
Read More: ISL 2024/25: Kerala Blasters Secure Sergio Castel on Pre-Contract Agreement
FAQs
How did India perform in their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers opener?
India played out a goalless draw against Bangladesh in their opening Group C match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.
What were the key moments of the India vs Bangladesh match?
Bangladesh had early chances due to Indian defensive lapses, while India dominated the second half but failed to convert opportunities, with Sunil Chhetri missing a crucial header.
Who were the standout players in the India vs Bangladesh match?
Liston Colaco was India’s most threatening attacker, while Hamza Choudhury controlled the game for Bangladesh with his defensive and playmaking skills.
What changes did India’s coach Manolo Márquez make for this match?
Márquez made five changes from India’s previous friendly, bringing in Boris Singh, Udanta Singh, Lalengmawia Ralte, Sandesh Jhingan, and Farukh Choudhary.
What’s next for India in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers?
India will face Singapore and Hong Kong in their remaining Group C matches, needing improved performances to secure qualification.
