10/10/2025
Late Slip-Up Gifts 10-Man India a Stunning 1-1 Draw Against Singapore
NATIONAL STADIUM
KALLANG , SINGAPORE
— Just when it seemed Singapore had the match in the bag, a shocking defensive blunder in the 90th minute handed India a lifeline they desperately needed. India, down to 10 men after an early second-half red card, snatched a dramatic 1-1 draw in their AFC Asian Cup qualifier on Thursday thanks to substitute Rahim Ali’s quick thinking and sharp finish.
The result was a heartbreaker for a Singapore team that dominated from start to finish but couldn’t close the door, despite playing with a man advantage for nearly half the game.
The Game Unfolds
Singapore wasted no time taking control at the National Stadium, pressing hard and forcing India deep into their own half. India’s defense, led by captain and goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, stood tall throughout the first half. Gurpreet’s crucial one-on-one save against Ikhsan Fandi was a highlight, keeping India in the game.
But just as the half was about to end, Singapore struck. A clever, lofted pass from captain Hariss Harun found Shawal Anuar, who expertly set up Ikhsan Fandi to slot home a well-earned goal in stoppage time.
The Red Card That Shifted Everything
Two minutes after the break, India’s hopes took a hit. Defender Sandesh Jhingan, already on a yellow, picked up a second for a reckless challenge on Fandi, leaving India scrambling with just 10 men. Singapore surged forward, controlling possession and firing chance after chance at the beleaguered Indian defense.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was nothing short of heroic, pulling off a series of breathtaking saves—including a jaw-dropping double-save—to keep India’s hopes alive and the scoreline at 1-0.
A Last-Minute Miracle
Just when it looked like Singapore would seal the deal, fate stepped in. In the 90th minute, substitute Jordan Emaviwe’s weak back-pass to keeper Izwan Mahbud turned into a disaster. Rahim Ali, brought on late for Sunil Chhetri, pounced on the error with lightning reflexes.
Mahbud’s attempted clearance ricocheted off Ali, leaving him a simple tap-in for his first-ever international goal. The stadium fell silent as the away side celebrated a stunning equalizer against the odds.
This late twist keeps India’s slim hopes of qualification alive in a fiercely competitive Group C. The showdown continues in Goa on October 14, where these two teams will meet again with everything still to play for.
📷💻Robbie Oca
📷📷Andy Pascua