As India resume their AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign on Thursday with an away fixture against Singapore, one key question looms — can the Blue Tigers make it to the continental showpiece for a historic third successive time?
The task, however, is steep. India have collected only one point from their first two matches — a goalless draw against Bangladesh followed by a 1-0 loss to Hong Kong. With four matches remaining, every fixture has now turned into a must-win for Khalid Jamil’s side.
Yet, optimism remains. The team’s spirited third-place finish in the CAFA Nations Cup last month, where India stunned Tajikistan and Oman, showed what the side is capable of.
Forward Vikram Partap Singh, who was part of that CAFA campaign, stressed the importance of that experience.
“We already played a CAFA tournament. That was very helpful for us because we almost trained for 20 days at the time,” he said, highlighting the benefit of extended preparations. “Everyone who is a professional player knows how to maintain themselves, and we are doing our best to stay fit at home.”
Tricky Test Awaits in Singapore
India’s opponents, Singapore, are currently ranked 158th in the FIFA rankings — 24 places below India. However, recent results suggest they cannot be underestimated. Singapore defeated Bangladesh in their previous qualifier and held Hong Kong to a goalless draw — a team that had edged India with a late penalty.
Also, Jamil faced his own challenges while kickstarting preparations in Bengaluru on September 20, with only 16 of the 30 probables he had called up available. Several clubs were reluctant to release their players for national duty as the camp fell outside the international window. However, the head coach didn’t seem too concerned, having dealt with a similar situation just a month ago ahead of the CAFA Nations Cup.
“Yes, we are ready to play this game. We know it is a very important match. We are playing away, and we need a positive result. The approach is simple — we all want to win,” he said, underlining the team’s intent.
Sunil Chhetri Returns
There are some notable inclusions and omissions in Jamil’s final squad. Sunil Chhetri, who missed the last camp due to fitness issues, returns to the side. Sandesh Jhingan, recovering from a jaw fracture suffered against Iran in the CAFA Nations Cup, also makes his comeback — this time donning a protective mask.
When asked about Chhetri’s match fitness, Jamil was clear: “Yes, he’s available and ready to play the full 90 minutes. Sandesh Jhingan as well.”
However, the team suffered last-minute setbacks as Roshan Singh Naorem and Irfan Yadwad were ruled out through injuries. With Roshan sidelined late, only Mohammed Uvais remains as a natural full-back, as visa constraints prevented replacements from being called up.
From Mohun Bagan Super Giant, only Sahal Abdul Samad, Deepak Tangri, and Liston Colaco were selected, while Apuia, Manvir Singh, and Abhishek Singh were omitted. Ashique Kuruniyan, Jithin MS, and Suresh Wangjam also missed out.
Opponents Watch: Singapore’s Key Threats
Ikhsan Fandi, one of Singapore’s most prolific forwards, will be the player to watch. The 25-year-old striker, currently on loan at Thai League 1 side Ratchaburi from BG Pathum United, has netted 21 goals in 41 appearances for his country and recently became the first Singaporean to score in an AFC Champions League knockout match.
Captain Hariss Harun adds experience and leadership in midfield. With over 140 caps and the distinction of being Singapore’s youngest-ever international debutant, Harun’s tactical awareness and composure make him a vital cog in Gavin Lee’s system.
Another name to watch is Jonan Tan, a 19-year-old forward from Vizela FC’s U23 team in Portugal, who has earned his first national call-up.
Since June 2025, Lee has served as Singapore’s interim head coach following Tsutomu Ogura’s departure for personal reasons. Lee, who also works as technical director for Tampines Rovers, has prioritised stability and form, calling up seven players from league leaders Lion City Sailors.
“They have a good coach and quality players, so we should not take this match lightly,” said Jamil, refusing to single out any particular threat. “We must focus on our own game.”
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, India hold a narrow edge over Singapore, with 12 wins to 11, and four draws between the two sides.
As the Blue Tigers take the field in Singapore, their mission is clear — to revive their qualifying campaign and keep alive their dream of a third straight AFC Asian Cup appearance. Whether Jamil’s men can channel their fighting spirit from the CAFA Cup will determine how brightly India’s continental hopes burn.
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