Shillong: It was a magnificent performance as Bangladesh put up a great fight forcing mighty India to play a goalless draw in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers match held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, India on Tuesday.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh, ranked 185 in FIFA ranking, fought neck to neck with India, ranked 126th, but failed to convert several scoring opportunities due to a lack of proper finishing. Bangladesh created panic in the Indian camp in the very first minute when Mujibor Rahman Jonny seized the ball following a mistake by Indian goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, but the chance was not capitalized.
The second major opportunity for Bangladesh arose in the 10th minute when Mohammad Hridoy could not capitalize on another error by the Indian goalkeeper from a promising position. Led by debutant Hamza Choudhury, Bangladesh maintained an aggressive stance, limiting India’s advances in front of their home crowd. Despite losing pace after early escapes, India survived close calls, including a missed header by Morsalin in the 12th minute.
In a significant moment, Captain Topu Barman left the field due to injury in the 22nd minute, with Rahmat Mia coming on as a replacement. Following this, India began to recognize Bangladesh’s defensive boundaries, with Liston Colaco’s attempt being thwarted by Bangladesh’s goalkeeper, Mitul Marma, in the 28th minute.
India missed a crucial opportunity in the 30th minute when Udanta Singh’s shot was blocked by young defender Shakil Ahmed Topu, and Marma again secured the ball on a second attempt. Bangladesh nearly ended the first half with a lead when Mujibor Rahman Jonny could not take advantage of an open Indian goal in the 42nd minute.
In the second half, India initiated attacks early, with Sunil Chhetri missing a header in the 55th minute. Bangladesh again came close in the 75th minute when Fahim missed a chance from inside the box off a cross from Rakib. Despite several strategic changes, coach Javier Cabrera could not alter the outcome of the match.
Hamza Dewan Choudhury, who plays in the English Premier League, made his debut memorable with his performance, though the lack of goals prevented Bangladesh from securing a victory. His dream of wearing the red and green jersey was realized as he was named in the starting XI.
Bangladesh XI included Topu Barman (c), Md Ridoy, Sheikh Morsalin, Hamza Dewan Choudhury, Shahriar Emon, Rakib Hossain, Shakil Topu, Mitul Marma, Tariq Raihan Kazi, Mujibor Rahman Jonny, and Saad Uddin. India’s lineup featured Vishal Kaith; Rahul Bheke, Subahashish Bose, Sandesh Jhingan (C), Liston Colaco, Farukh Choudhury, Udanta Singh Kumam, Sunil Chhetri, Ayush Chhetri, Lalengmawia Apuia, and Roris Singh Thangjam.