Chhetri and Jhingan Lead India’s Crucial Squad Against Singapore

Updated on: October 6, 2025, 09:24 AM IST

Sunil Chhetri returns for India’s crucial AFC Asia Cup qualifier against Singapore on October 9.

India’s Head Coach Khalid Jamil has called up Sunil Chhetri for their must-win AFC Asia Cup qualifier against Singapore. Also returning is Sandesh Jhingan, coming back from injury. India, currently at the bottom of Group C, desperately need a victory to stay in contention for the 2027 tournament in Saudi Arabia.

Chhetri’s experience will bolster the forward line, which has struggled for goals, highlighting the match’s significance in the management’s eyes. After training in Bengaluru from September 20, the team will head to Singapore, with the return fixture on October 14 in Goa.

Squad Prepared for High-Pressure Situations

The 23-man squad features goalkeepers Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh, and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. Key defenders include Jhingan, Anwar Ali, and Rahul Bheke. Midfield relies on Berandon Fernandes and Saha Abdul Samad, with Udanta Singh Kumam providing pace. The attack comprises Lallianzuala Chhangte, Liston Colaco, and Farukh Choudhary supporting Chhetri. Standby players include goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari and forward Muhammed Suhail for tactical options in the return leg.

The match at Singapore’s National Stadium will challenge India’s resolve in front of a passionate home crowd, with Jamil emphasizing patience and tactical discipline. After their solid performance in the CAFA Nations Cup, India needs to convert potential into points to keep their Asia Cup hopes alive.

The decisive second leg is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST on October 14 in Goa, where home support could be pivotal in determining India’s Asia Cup future.

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