India must deliver a convincing performance when they host Singapore at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign.
In their previous meeting on October 9 at the Singapore National Stadium, India escaped with a 1‑1 draw despite being reduced to ten men. Defender Sandesh Jhingan was sent off in the 47th minute after a second yellow card, and Singapore dominated possession and chances for much of the match. India’s equaliser came in the 90th minute, when substitute Rahim Ali capitalised on a goalkeeping error by Izwan Mahbud.
For Tuesday’s game, head coach Khalid Jamil has recalled Mohun Bagan Super Giant duo Subhasish Bose and Lalengmawia Ralte. Bose is expected to replace the suspended Jhingan in the defence, while Ralte may take a holding role in midfield. India will also be wary of Singapore’s key threats, including skipper Hariss Harun (long passes), Ikhsan Fandi (scoring threat) and Kyoga Nakamura (control in midfield).
India’s fortunes also hinge on the form of veteran Sunil Chhetri, who has returned from international retirement for these qualifiers.
Singapore currently sit second in Group C with five points from three matches. India, with only two points from three games, require victory and favourable results elsewhere to keep their qualification hopes alive. Their best scenario also depends on Hong Kong losing to Singapore at home next month.
