Tue Mar 25 21:32:00 UTC 2025: **India and Bangladesh Play to Goalless Draw in Asian Cup Qualifier**
SHILLONG, India (March 26, 2025) – India’s bid to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup got off to a frustrating start with a goalless draw against Bangladesh in their opening Group C qualifier on Tuesday. Despite dominating the second half, India were unable to convert their chances against a resilient Bangladesh side.
Bangladesh enjoyed the better of the first half, creating several opportunities, most notably when a goal-line clearance by Subhasish Bose prevented a goal after a mistake by Indian goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. India improved significantly after halftime, with Udanta Singh and Farukh Choudhary going close, while Subhasish Bose almost scored with a long-range effort. Even star striker Sunil Chhetri failed to find the back of the net. Hamza Choudhury, playing for Sheffield United on loan from Leicester City, couldn’t make a significant impact for Bangladesh.
The match was a marked contrast to India’s recent 3-0 friendly victory over the Maldives. Coach Manolo Marquez made five changes to the starting lineup, but the team struggled to break down the Bangladesh defense.
The two teams will meet again on November 18th in Bangladesh. India’s next qualifier is against Hong Kong on June 10th. Only the top team in Group C, which also includes Singapore, will advance to the Asian Cup.
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