Goa: India’s quest for qualification in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 came to an abrupt end on Tuesday night as Singapore delivered a surprising 2-1 victory at Fatorda Stadium. Midfielder Song Ui-young’s clinical brace proved crucial for the visitors, reviving their qualification hopes while officially knocking India out of contention.
Under pressure heading into the match, India head coach Khalid Jamil had vowed to adopt an aggressive strategy, and the Blue Tigers started strong. They employed a high-pressing game that rattled Singapore’s defense, leading to an early breakthrough in the 14th minute. Lallianzuala Chhangte, with ample space nearly 30 yards from goal, fired a stunning right-footed shot into the top corner, igniting wild celebrations among the home fans.
India maintained a dominant presence for much of the first half, generating several scoring opportunities through the active front trio of Chhangte, Liston Colaco, and Mahesh Singh. However, their failure to convert promising chances ultimately proved costly. Both Chhangte and Mahesh squandered clear opportunities, while a low shot from Liston Colaco was cleared off the line.
India Miss, Singapore Capitalizes
Singapore took advantage of India’s missed opportunities just before halftime. A cross from Irfan Najeeb found Glenn Kweh unmarked, who then assisted Song Ui-young, allowing him to calmly slot the ball past goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu to equalize.
Following the break, India continued to push forward but left gaps in their defense. Singapore’s second goal arrived in the 58th minute as they executed a swift counter-attack. Ikhsan Fandi maintained possession and released Shawal Anuar, who set up Song for his second goal of the match, showcasing a precise finish from a narrow angle.
Despite a series of attacking substitutions, including Brandon Fernandes and Udanta Singh, India failed to capitalize on late chances. Singapore, in contrast, remained dangerous on the counter-attack and effectively defended their lead. As a result, Singapore now sits just two points behind group leaders Hong Kong, while India finds itself at the bottom of Group C, thereby exiting the qualification race.
