Bangladesh recorded a historic 1–0 victory over India in their final home match of the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, securing their first win against their neighbours in 22 years. A first-half strike from Shekh Morsalin proved enough for the hosts to hold on under intense pressure.
The packed National Stadium erupted in the 12th minute as Bangladesh launched a quick counter-attack. Morsalin combined with Rakib Hossain to break into India’s penalty area, and when Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh rushed out, Morsalin cleverly slotted the ball through his legs to give the home side the lead.
Bangladesh continued to press for the next few minutes, but a series of loose passes allowed India to regain possession and test the defence. In the 31st minute, a miscontrolled clearance by goalkeeper Mitul Marma left Chang with a clear shot, but Hamza Choudhury reacted instantly, heading the ball away to prevent an equaliser.
India applied pressure for much of the first half, winning several corners, but none created significant danger. In the 44th minute, Hamza nearly doubled the lead with a long-range shot just outside the box that narrowly missed. Coach Javier Cabrera made a defensive substitution before half-time, bringing Shakil Ahad Topu on for Tariq Kazi.
The second half saw India make several attacking substitutions, including Naorem Singh Mahesh replacing Nikhil Prabhu, and later Brison Fernandes and debutant Mohammed Sanan coming on for Macarton and Chhangte. Bangladesh opted to control the game from the back, allowing India to keep possession but rarely threatening the goal. Rakib Hossain won a corner in the 47th minute, and a handball saw him booked soon after.
India’s attackers, including Sanan and Bheke, came close in the 65th and 67th minutes, but goalkeeper Marma and Hamza’s alert interventions ensured the home side maintained their slim lead. Bangladesh made substitutions in the 70th minute, with Md Taj Uddin and Shahriar Emon replacing Morsalin and Zayyan to refresh the team.
Late in the match, tensions rose as India launched desperate attacks. Marma received treatment after a collision in the 74th minute, and India earned a series of free kicks and corners, but Bangladesh’s compact defensive setup, with all outfield players behind the ball, held firm. In stoppage time, Mahesh’s ball into the box was claimed by Marma, who bravely came off his line despite a minor injury, while India struggled to create a meaningful chance.
As the final whistle blew, the Bangladesh players celebrated a rare and emotionally charged victory. For the first time since their famous win over India in the 2003 SAFF Championship semi-final, they walked off with a sense of superiority over their rivals, this time thanks to Morsalin’s early strike and a disciplined, determined defensive display that secured a long-awaited 1–0 triumph.
