The resilient Indians held Singapore for a 1-1 dramatic draw on Thursday, saving a point from a match that saw them be reduced to 10 people early in the second half. The result ensures the expectations of the AFC 2027 Asian Cup qualification, though the road is still challenging. India fell behind in the first half when Ikhsan Fandi of Singapore took advantage of the doubts from defenders Anwar Ali and Muhammed Uvais, who walked home after passing long into the box. Things get worse after the second half begins. The main defense of Sandesh Jhingan, who returned from the fracture of the cheekbone that needed surgery, was removed in the 47th minute after the second yellow card, leaving India to play with 10 men for most games. Although Singapore dominates ownership with more than 60% of the ball and creates various opportunities, India has been saved thanks to the late defense mistakes from the home team. Rahim Ali hit the back of Jordan Emaviwe of Singapore in the 90th minute, Izwan Mahbud’s goalkeeper to release the ball to the open net, guaranteeing an important equalization.Singapore’s inability to close the match proved expensive. India has struggled to create a 90 -minute opportunity and may have disappeared without a mistake. With a draw, India now has two points from three games after a 0-0 draw against Bangladesh and lost 0-1 to Hong Kong in an early game. Only the top team in the group is eligible for the 2027 tournament, which means that every point is critical for Indian aspirations. Both parties will face again on their feet on October 14 in Margao, Goa, with India hoping to build their resilience and change their campaign. Playing with 10 people and relying on counter -attacks, India shows determination and mental strength, even under pressure from Singapore’s dominant side. As a result, even far from ideal, it provides a strict life line in Group C, where each match brings a significant weight in the qualifying race.
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India’s survival in this meeting outlines their need for sharper finish and tactical discipline as they aim to challenge the top spot in the group.
