New Delhi: India salvaged a dramatic 1-1 draw against Singapore in their Group C Asian Cup 2027 qualifier on Thursday, keeping their hopes of qualification alive despite being reduced to 10 men for most of the match.
Singapore took the lead in first-half stoppage time through Ikhsan Fandi, as Indian defenders Anwar Ali and Muhammed Uvais hesitated on a long ball, allowing Fandi to slot home. However, India, under coach Khalid Jamil, fought back valiantly despite losing key defender Sandesh Jhingan to a second yellow card in the 47th minute. Jhingan, returning from a cheekbone fracture, had been wearing a protective black mask.
The breakthrough for India came in the 90th minute when substitute Rahim Ali capitalised on a defensive error from Singapore’s Jordan Emaviwe, who misjudged a backpass from near the centre line. With the goalkeeper rushing out, Ali calmly slotted the ball into the net to earn India a valuable point.
Singapore dominated possession throughout, controlling more than 60% of the game and creating several scoring opportunities, but their inability to convert chances ultimately cost them. India had limited attacking options but demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline, particularly after going down to 10 men.
This draw gives India two points from three matches, following a 0-0 draw with Bangladesh and a 0-1 loss to Hong Kong. Only the top team from Group C advances to the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, making every remaining match crucial.
The two sides will meet again on October 14 in Margao, Goa, for the return-leg match, where India will look to build on their late heroics.
