India vs Singapore, AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, AS IT HAPPENED: India suffered a narrow 1-2 defeat to Singapore in their international friendly at Fatorda Stadium, Goa, on Tuesday. The Blue Tigers began brightly, with Lallianzuala Chhangte giving them an early lead in the first half.
However, missed chances proved costly as Singapore hit back right before the break through Song Ui-yong, who then completed his brace in the second half to seal the win. Despite India's attacking intent, Khalid Jamil's side couldn't find an equaliser as Singapore held firm to clinch a hard-fought victory.
Currently at the bottom of Group C with just one point from two games, India can ill afford another setback. Their preparations, however, have been far from smooth,
with several players joining the Bengaluru camp late due to club commitments and injuries. Still, the team will take heart from the return of veteran striker Sunil Chhetri, whose experience and leadership could prove decisive.
Adding further stability to the squad is Sandesh Jhingan, back after recovering from a cheekbone injury, while midfielders Brandon Fernandes and Sahal Abdul Samad, along with wingers Farukh Choudhary and Liston Colaco, provide renewed creative spark. Jamil has introduced ten changes from the CAFA Nations Cup squad, signalling a more attack-oriented approach. Youngsters Pramveer Singh and Macarton Nickson have also earned their first senior call-ups, reflecting Jamil's intent to blend youth with experience.
At the CAFA Nations Cup, India showed defensive discipline - holding their shape well against stronger teams like Iran and Oman - but struggled with efficiency in front of goal. Jamil's focus this time will be on improving transitions and finishing, ensuring the team converts its chances against a disciplined Singapore side.
Singapore, ranked 158, enters this fixture under new interim coach Gavin Lee, who has impressed in the domestic league and previously led the national team in temporary stints. Lee's squad sees the return of captain Hariss Harun, while forwards Ikhsan Fandi and Jonan Tan pose a real threat in attack. The Lions, still chasing their first-ever Asian Cup qualification on merit, will look to make home advantage count - having historically dominated India in Singapore with eight wins in previous encounters.
With both sides under transition and desperate for momentum, Thursday's clash promises to be a hard-fought battle - one that could shape India's Asian Cup destiny.
