Updated on: Oct 06, 2025 09:24 am IST
Sunil Chhetri to Play Crucial Role in India’s AFC Asia Cup Qualifier Against Singapore
India’s national football team is set to face Singapore on October 9 in a vital AFC Asia Cup qualifier. With India at the bottom of Group C, this match is crucial for their hopes of advancing.
Head Coach Khalid Jamil has included the experienced Sunil Chhetri in the squad for this must-win encounter. Chhetri’s return, along with Sandesh Jhingan who is back from injury, bolsters the team’s lineup.
India’s situation is precarious, having only one point from two matches while Singapore leads with four points. The upcoming games against Singapore are critical for determining India’s future in the tournament.
Chhetri was rested during the CAFA National Cup, where India finished third, adding to the significance of his return. Training commenced on September 20 in Bengaluru, moving to Singapore for the qualifying match.
Squad Built for Pressure Moments
Coach Jamil has stressed the importance of the upcoming match, stating, “There are still four matches to go, and the next one against Singapore is the most important for us right now.” This highlights the narrow margin for error that India faces.
The 23-man squad includes goalkeepers Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh, and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. Defenders like Sandesh Jhingan are joined by Anwar Ali and others. Midfield creativity comes from Berandon Fernandes and Saha Abdul Samad, with attacking options from Lallianzuala Chhangte and Liston Colaco supporting Chhetri upfront.
Backup players like goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari and forward Muhammed Suhail are on standby for the next leg being held on October 14 at Goa’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The match in Singapore poses a major test due to the challenging atmosphere. Jamil emphasizes the need for patience and tactical discipline.
For India, the route forward is challenging yet achievable. With Chhetri’s leadership and Jhingan’s defense, the team aims to convert potential into progress.
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