Bangladesh Stuns India in AFC Qualifier

Bangladesh Ends 22-Year Drought with Victory Over India

In a stunning upset during the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers, Bangladesh secured a historic 1-0 victory over India in Dhaka on November 17, 2025. This marks Bangladesh's first win over India in 22 years, dating back to their 2-1 triumph in the 2003 SAFF Championship semi-final.

The match, played at the packed National Stadium in Dhaka, saw Bangladesh's 19-year-old forward Shekh Morsalin score the decisive goal in the 14th minute. Morsalin capitalized on a brilliant counter-attacking move orchestrated by Rakib Hossein, who managed to bypass Indian defenders Akash Mishra and Nikhil Prabhu.

Key Moments of the Match

The first half was dominated by Bangladesh's aggressive counter-attacking strategy, which caught India's cautious midfield off guard. Bangladesh's center-forward Rakib Hossein was arguably the man of the match, constantly troubling the Indian defense with his pace and skill.

India's goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu looked hesitant when Morsalin approached, allowing the young striker to gently lift the ball over his legs and into the net. The goal came from a combination of brilliant Bangladeshi play and lackadaisical defending from the Indian side.

"This was Bangladesh's first win over India in 22 years, since they last beat them 2-1 at Dhaka in 2003," reported ESPN's coverage of the match.

Second Half Efforts Fall Short

The second half saw India make changes with the introduction of Mahesh Singh and debutant Mohammed Sanan. Sanan, in particular, became the centerpiece of India's improved attacking play, creating several opportunities for the Blue Tigers.

"The second half was livened up by the introduction of Mahesh Singh from the off and debutant Mohammed Sanan a while later. The latter, especially, was at the heart of any good attacking move India pulled off in the second 45, but the attack lacked the edge to make their enhanced possession and chance creation count," noted ESPN.

Despite their improved performance, India couldn't find the equalizer. Mahesh Singh had a shot that went wide, while Rahul Bheke's powerful header also missed the target. Sanan had a smartly taken effort saved by Bangladesh's goalkeeper Mitul Marma.

Implications for Both Teams

With this defeat, India has finished bottom of Group C in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, collecting only 2 points from 4 matches. Bangladesh, also with 2 points, finishes above India on head-to-head record.

"India finish bottom of AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers group after limp 0-1 defeat away to Bangladesh," reported ESPN.

The result means both teams are already out of contention for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. Hong Kong and Singapore lead the group with 8 points each and will battle for the top spot and qualification.

Context and Background

The match was the second encounter between these South Asian neighbors in the qualifiers, following their goalless draw in Shillong back in March. Since that match, India has undergone a coaching change with Khalid Jamil taking over from Manolo Marquez.

Notably, India's all-time leading goal scorer Sunil Chhetri was not part of the squad, with speculation about his international retirement growing stronger under the new management.

"Sunil Chhetri, India's highest goal scorer, will also not be involved in the match with talks about the 41-year-old's second international retirement only strengthening since Jamil took up the reins," reported Olympics.com.

What's Next?

Despite their elimination, both teams will play their final group matches in March 2026. India will face Hong Kong, while Bangladesh will take on Singapore. While these matches won't affect qualification, pride and the rivalry between these neighboring nations will be on the line.

For Bangladesh, this victory represents a significant achievement and a boost to their confidence. For India, it raises questions about their preparation, tactics, and the future of the team under Khalid Jamil's leadership.