India’s Asian Cup Hopes Fade After 1–2 Defeat to Singapore in Goa

Image Credit: AIFF

India’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup took a major blow as they lost 1–2 to Singapore at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Madgaon, Goa. Despite taking an early lead, the Blue Tigers failed to maintain control and were punished for defensive errors and missed chances.

The match began positively for India. In the 14', Lallianzuala Chhangte scored with a clean strike from the edge of the box, sending the home crowd into celebration. India looked confident and created a few more openings through Liston Colaco and Mahesh Singh, but they could not find a second goal to build on their advantage. Singapore equalised just before half time. Song Ui-young found space inside the Indian penalty area after a quick passing move and calmly placed the ball past Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

The second half also was no different, as it was India who dominated the game but they could not get the golden touch to get their much deserved lead. In the 58', India’s defence was caught off guard again by a quick counter attack. Song Ui-young again finished from close range to give Singapore the lead. India tried to respond with attacking changes, bringing on Rahim Ali and Udanta Singh, but their crosses and final passes lacked accuracy. Brandon Fernandes missed a golden chance in the final minute, shooting wide from close range.

The result means India are now out of contention for the 2027 Asian Cup. Singapore, meanwhile, moved up in their group and kept their qualification hopes alive. For India, this defeat highlighted the need for better finishing and more composure in defence. Head coach Khalid Jamil in the post match press conference said that "lack of concentration" was the reason India could not hold on to their lead.