 "India have played five matches in AFC Asian Cup Qualifier so far but are yet to win. Image: AIFF")
India suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Bangladesh in their AFC Asian Cup qualifier game at the Dhaka National Stadium on Tuesday, November 18. Shekh Morsalin scored early for the hosts, and Bangladesh defended well to hold on for their first win of the qualifying campaign.
Hamza Choudhury also made the Indian team do some hardwork, making crucial clearances and winning midfield battles. India tried to fight back, especially after the introduction of Mohammed Sanan in the second half, but failed to make any real impact. Sanan created a few chances, but India didn’t convert them.
Chhangte and Rahim Ali also struggled to make an impact and goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made some saves but couldn’t prevent the early goal.
Fans slam Khalid Jamil’s men
Fans on social media were furious after the loss, with many slamming the team for poor performance. Some supporters also criticised the decision to not include younger players from the start, saying Mohammed Sanan’s performance late in the game showed the difference fresh talent could make.
This defeat means India have still not registered a single win from five matches so far in this competition. They have slipped to the last place in the Group C points table, their worst showing in years. For Bangladesh, however, it was a moment of joy as they got their first points, even though they have no chance of advancing.