India’s campaign in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round did not have the best start, as they were held to a goalless draw by Bangladesh in the opening Group A match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Tuesday.
After an uncertain first half, during which Bangladesh’s attackers exploited gaps in the Indian defense to launch several attacks, the Blue Tigers improved in the second half, keeping the opposing defenders busy to the delight of the 15,000-strong crowd. However, a goal remained elusive, leaving India to prepare for tougher battles ahead against Singapore and Hong Kong in the four-team group. Singapore and Hong Kong also played out a 0-0 draw earlier on Tuesday.
India head coach Manolo Marquez made five changes from the team that defeated the Maldives in a FIFA Friendly less than a week ago, bringing in Boris Singh Thangjam, Udanta Singh Kumam, Lalengmawia Ralte, Sandesh Jhingan, and Farukh Choudhary. He also handed the captain’s armband to Sandesh, seemingly confident in his plans despite the rain-marred, slippery pitch at the lush green Nehru Stadium, according to the AIFF website.
Bangladesh had an opportunity to take the lead within seconds of kickoff when goalkeeper Vishal Kaith’s unsteady clearance landed straight at the feet of Md Mojibor Jony. To the relief of the Indian bench, the Bangladesh midfielder’s shot crashed into the side netting.
The next dangerous move also came from Bangladesh, as Md Shakil Topu danced down the right flank and delivered a cross into the goalmouth for Md Shariar Emon, whose header sailed over the bar.
In the first 15 minutes, the visitors troubled the Blue Tigers’ defense with vigor and energy. Emon, in particular, looked increasingly dangerous, and another mistake by Kaith nearly led to a goal, but Subhasish Bose made a desperate goalline save just in time.
After surviving this early onslaught, India slowly gained control, establishing dominance in midfield and creating several promising chances.
The first serious test for Bangladesh goalkeeper Mitul Marma came from Liston Colaco, but his right-footed effort lacked the necessary power. At the half-hour mark, India had a golden opportunity to take the lead, but Farukh failed to beat the goalkeeper despite having a clear sight of goal. The move was initiated by Colaco on the left flank and headed down at the goalmouth by Udanta Singh after Md Ridoy’s sloppy clearance.
Bangladesh squandered another opportunity in the 41st minute when Jony raced down the right and was poised to strike, only for Kaith to pull off a crucial save.
On the other end, Colaco continued to be India’s driving force. In the 54th minute, his well-measured cross into the goalmouth had the makings of a goal, but Sunil Chhetri failed to make the right connection despite an impressive spot jump.
India continued pressing high, and minutes later, Chhetri was challenged mid-air by Bangladesh’s defensive midfielder Hamza Choudhury, who used his experience from playing in England to play a key role in both defense and attack.
(ANI)
