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India lost the lead and the match, as they slumped to a 1-2 defeat at the hands of Singapore, at the Nehru Stadium, here, on Tuesday. The defeat ended India’s hopes of qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.
Lallianzuala Chhangte gave India an early lead in the 14th minute, only for Song Uiyoung to score either side of half-time to shatter Indian hearts. The result means India are stuck on two points from four matches, and even if they win their remaining games, their maximum tally of eight points will not be enough for them to qualify. Either Singapore or Hong Kong, both of whom are already on eight points, are certain to garner more. The hosts bossed the game with possession, aggression and attacking intent. Their high-press tactics pinned Singapore into their own half, and they created chances through intelligent play and set-pieces. But it was their profligacy in front of goal and fragile defending at key moments that proved their undoing.
India coach Khalid Jamil had spoken about the importance of attacking from the first whistle, and the players responded with energy and intent. India’s press was relentless, forcing Singapore into hurried clearances.
Desperate for an equaliser, India head coach Khali Jamil made plenty of changes, bringing Rahim Ali and Udanta Singh in place of Liston Colaco and Sunil Chhetri. Brandon Fernandes missed out on a great chance to restore parity for India on the 90th minute after excellent work from Udanta Singh and Rahul Bheke, but he hit the ball wide with his weaker foot with the goal at his mercy.
