Already eliminated from contention for the 2027 Asian Cup, India slumped to another disappointing result, losing 0-1 to Bangladesh in their penultimate Group C qualifying match on Tuesday.
Sheikh Morsalin scored the decisive goal in the 11th minute, sparking loud celebrations at a packed National Stadium. The match held little significance in terms of qualification, with both teams already out of the running for the continental tournament.
India nearly equalised in the 31st minute when Lallianzuala Chhangte found space at the edge of the box. With Bangladesh goalkeeper Mitul Marma caught out of position, Chhangte’s shot looked destined for goal before Hamza Choudhury produced a crucial headed clearance on the line.
Tensions flared briefly in the first half, with players from both sides involved in a pushing incident near the touchline, but the referee quickly restored order.
India’s qualifying campaign had effectively ended on October 14 after they surrendered a 1-0 lead to suffer a 1-2 loss to Singapore in Margao.
With the latest defeat, India remain winless and firmly at the bottom of the four-team table, managing just two points from five matches. Bangladesh, who registered their first win of the campaign, climbed to third with five points.
The reverse fixture between the sides ended in a goalless draw in Shillong earlier this year. This match also marked India’s first game on Bangladeshi soil in 22 years, since the 2003 SAFF Gold Cup at the same venue.
India, ranked 136th in the FIFA rankings, will conclude their qualifiers against Hong Kong at home on March 31, 2026. Bangladesh sit 183rd on the global chart.
(By PTI Inputs)
