India vs Singapore Asian Cup qualifier match recap

India vs Singapore Recap: Confident Performance at Home

The India vs Singapore match ended with a deserved 2–0 victory for the Blue Tigers, boosting their chances of reaching the AFC Asian Cup. Playing in front of a packed home crowd in Kolkata, India showed discipline, energy, and attacking intent throughout the game.

From the start, India looked sharper. Their pressing forced Singapore into early mistakes, while captain Sunil Chhetri led the line with his trademark movement and leadership.

The breakthrough came in the 28th minute when Lallianzuala Chhangte scored with a curling effort from the edge of the box, sending the fans into celebration.

India’s Tactical Discipline

Coach Igor Štimac set up his team with a compact shape, allowing India to control possession and limit Singapore’s chances. The India vs Singapore performance highlighted how much the team has improved in tactical awareness and patience.

India’s midfield trio — Sahal Abdul Samad, Anirudh Thapa, and Jeakson Singh — dictated the tempo with short, quick passes. Singapore struggled to close them down and often chased shadows.

The defense, led by Sandesh Jhingan, looked solid and confident, denying Singapore any clear scoring opportunities.

“We played mature football tonight,” said Štimac after the game. “The players believed in the plan and executed it perfectly.”

Singapore’s Missed Opportunities

Singapore entered the India vs Singapore fixture hoping to frustrate the hosts, but their strategy failed to create meaningful attacks. Forward Ikhsan Fandi was isolated, and the visitors managed just two shots on target.

Their best moment came early in the second half when Shahdan Sulaiman’s free kick forced a save from Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. Apart from that, Singapore rarely looked like scoring.

Coach Takayuki Nishigaya admitted after the match that his side lacked composure in midfield and could not cope with India’s intensity.

India’s Second Goal Seals the Victory

In the 67th minute, India doubled their lead. Substitute Manvir Singh finished off a quick counterattack started by Thapa, securing the result and sending the crowd wild.

The India vs Singapore match was a statement of intent — professional, confident, and controlled. India showed that they can dominate possession and still maintain defensive balance.

Fans cheered every pass as the final whistle confirmed a crucial win that keeps their qualification hopes alive.

Growing Confidence in Indian Football

This victory is more than just three points. It shows that Indian football is maturing under Štimac’s leadership. The players now display better movement, awareness, and confidence against regional opponents.

“We are growing as a team,” said Chhetri. “It’s not just about winning, it’s about improving every game.”

The India vs Singapore result also boosted India’s morale ahead of their next qualifier, where another win could seal their place in the Asian Cup.

What’s Next for India

India now sit top of their qualification group with two games remaining. If they maintain this level of focus, qualification looks very likely.

Singapore, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly and find more creativity in attack.

For Indian fans, this was a night to remember — loud, emotional, and full of pride. The team’s progress continues, and the India vs Singapore win proves that the dream of Asian Cup success is alive and well.