India's AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Begin with Draw Against Bangladesh

India's AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Kick Off

Shillong (Assam) [India], March 25: India's journey in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round commenced on a challenging note as they were held to a goalless draw by Bangladesh in their opening Group A match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Tuesday.

The first half saw Bangladesh taking advantage of gaps in the Indian defense, launching several attacks. However, the Blue Tigers regrouped in the second half, keeping the opposing defenders on their toes, much to the delight of the 15,000 fans present. Despite their efforts, India could not find the back of the net, setting the stage for tougher matches against Singapore and Hong Kong, who also played to a 0-0 draw earlier that day.

Head coach Manolo Marquez made five changes to the lineup that recently defeated the Maldives in a FIFA Friendly, introducing Boris Singh Thangjam, Udanta Singh Kumam, Lalengmawia Ralte, Sandesh Jhingan, and Farukh Choudhary. Sandesh was appointed captain, and the team appeared to have a solid strategy in place for the rain-soaked pitch of the lush Nehru Stadium, as noted by the AIFF website.

Bangladesh nearly took an early lead when goalkeeper Vishal Kaith's shaky clearance fell to Md Mojibor Jony, but his shot hit the side netting, much to the relief of the Indian bench.

Another chance for Bangladesh came shortly after, with Md Shakil Topu making a run down the right and delivering a cross for Md Shariar Emon, whose header went over the bar.

In the opening 15 minutes, the visitors put pressure on the Blue Tigers' defense with their energetic play. Emon was particularly threatening, and another mistake by Kaith almost cost India, but Subhasish Bose made a crucial goalline clearance just in time.

After weathering the storm, India began to assert control, making strides into the Bangladesh defense and dominating midfield play, creating several promising opportunities.

Liston Colaco was the first to challenge Bangladesh's goalkeeper Mitul Marma, but his shot lacked the necessary power. Near the half-hour mark, India had a chance to score, but Farukh failed to convert despite having a clear sight of the goal, following a setup by Colaco and a poor clearance from Md Ridoy.

Bangladesh missed a golden opportunity in the 41st minute when Jony broke through on the right, but Kaith made an impressive save to deny him.

Colaco continued to be a key player for India, and in the 54th minute, his well-placed cross almost resulted in a goal, but Sunil Chhetri couldn't connect properly despite a commendable leap.

India maintained high pressure during this phase, but Chhetri was thwarted by Hazma Choudhury, who used his experience from England to effectively manage both defensive and attacking plays for Bangladesh.