Hamza Choudhury made an impressive debut for Bangladesh, commanding the midfield and dictating play with composure and tenacity.
However, despite dominating large parts of the match, Bangladesh’s poor finishing proved costly as they were forced to settle for a frustrating 0-0 draw against India in their 2027 AFC Asian Cup third-round qualifier at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Tuesday.
The midfielder, who currently plays for Sheffield United on loan from Leicester City, showcased his experience from English football, bringing a level of control and discipline that helped Bangladesh take charge in the first half.
However, the team’s lack of clinical finishing meant they squandered at least five clear-cut chances.
Bangladesh started aggressively and nearly stunned India within 30 seconds when a mistake from goalkeeper Vishal Kaith gifted Mojibur Rahman Jony possession in the box.
However, Jony hesitated, missing the chance to capitalize.
Ten minutes later, another error from Kaith presented Mohammad Hridoy with an opportunity, but once again, Bangladesh failed to convert.
Sensing India’s discomfort, Bangladesh intensified their attacks.
In the 12th minute, Sheikh Morsalin’s cross found Sahariar Emon, whose header narrowly missed the target.
By the 19th minute, Bangladesh had created three major scoring chances, silencing the 16,000-strong Indian crowd.
However, their momentum took a hit when captain Topu Barman suffered an injury in the 22nd minute, forcing an early substitution.
India responded with Liston Colaco and Subhasish Bose trying to create openings, but Bangladesh’s defense held firm.
India’s best chance of the half came in the 30th minute from a counterattack, but Shakil Ahmed Tapu and goalkeeper Mitul Marma combined to deny Udanta Singh and Farukh Haji.
Despite losing some control in the second half, Bangladesh still had chances to snatch a win.
Their final big opportunity came in the 82nd minute, when Jony found himself one-on-one with Kaith, only to shoot straight at the goalkeeper.
India, ranked 126th in FIFA rankings compared to Bangladesh’s 185th, struggled to assert dominance, while Sunil Chhetri had a forgettable game, missing two good chances.
Bangladesh will now face Hong Kong and Singapore, while India must regroup before taking on the same opponents in their bid to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Match Statistics:
India: 10 shots (2 on target), 7 corners, 1 offside
Bangladesh: 8 shots (3 on target), 4 corners, 3 offsides
Yellow Cards: Bangladesh (2), India (0)
Bangladesh Starting XI:
Goalkeeper: Mitul Marma
Defenders: Topu Barman (C), Shakil Topu, Tariq Raihan Kazi, Saad Uddin
Midfielders: Hamza Dewan Choudhury, Mojibor Jony, Mohammad Ridoy, Sheikh Morsalin, Sahariar Emon
Forward: Rakib Hossain
