October 2025, New Delhi:

The AFC Asian Cup Qualifier clash between India and Singapore kicked off with high energy, intensity, and expectations — but at the end of the first half, the scoreboard still reads SGP 0–0 IND. Despite several chances, neither side could find the breakthrough in a tense, tactical first 45 minutes.

Pre-Match Build-Up

This qualifier is crucial for both teams as it could define their journey toward the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. India, led by coach Igor Štimac, came into the match with confidence after a strong performance against Afghanistan, while Singapore hoped to bounce back from recent defeats.

The venue, packed with passionate fans waving tricolours and chanting for the Blue Tigers, created an electric atmosphere. Expectations were high that India would dominate the game, given their superior FIFA ranking and recent attacking form.

Kick-Off and Early Minutes

From the very first whistle, India showed attacking intent. The front line, led by Sunil Chhetri, looked sharp, pressing high and controlling possession. Lallianzuala Chhangte and Manvir Singh used the wings effectively to stretch the Singapore defense.

In the 8th minute, Chhetri had the first real chance of the game — a header from a Brandon Fernandes cross — but it went just over the bar. Singapore responded immediately with a swift counter-attack, with Ikhsan Fandi testing Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who made a confident save.

The first ten minutes set the tone — India dominated possession, but Singapore remained organized and dangerous on counters.

Midfield Battle Heats Up

By the 20-minute mark, both teams began settling into a rhythm. The midfield battle became intense, with Brandon Fernandes orchestrating India’s play from deep and Haris Harun doing the same for Singapore.

India tried to build from the back, with Anirudh Thapa linking play between midfield and attack, but Singapore’s compact 4-4-2 shape made it difficult to penetrate through the center. India’s best moments came from the flanks, where Chhangte’s pace caused problems for Singapore’s left-back.

Singapore, meanwhile, looked to exploit spaces behind India’s defense. In the 27th minute, Shawal Anuar made a sharp run behind the line, forcing Sandesh Jhingan into a crucial interception.

India’s Missed Chances

India’s best spell came between the 30th and 40th minute. The Blue Tigers won consecutive corners and free-kicks, putting pressure on the Singapore defense. Chhetri’s curling free-kick in the 34th minute was beautifully struck but narrowly missed the top corner.

Moments later, Manvir Singh connected with a cross from Nikhil Poojary, but his header went wide of the post. The frustration was visible on the Indian bench — they were creating chances but lacked the finishing touch.

On the opposite end, Singapore’s goalkeeper Hassan Sunny stood tall, commanding his area and making two fine saves to deny India the opener.

Singapore’s Defensive Discipline

Credit must go to Singapore’s defense, which remained compact and disciplined throughout the half. Their center-backs, Irfan Fandi and Madhu Mohana, maintained a tight line and made timely clearances.

Singapore also relied on counter-attacks, trying to catch India off-guard. In the 41st minute, a long ball from the midfield found Ikhsan Fandi, whose shot was well blocked by Subhasish Bose.

Although Singapore didn’t dominate possession, their defensive structure frustrated India’s forwards and limited space inside the penalty box.

Half-Time Whistle

0–0

At half-time, the score remained SGP 0–0 IND. The Blue Tigers walked off the pitch knowing they had dominated the ball but failed to find a breakthrough.

India registered 7 attempts, with 3 on target, while Singapore had 2 shots on goal — both handled comfortably by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

The halftime stats clearly favored India in possession (67%) and passes completed (295), but the scoreboard told a different story.

Coach Igor Štimac looked animated on the sidelines, urging his players to be sharper in the final third.

Analysis

What’s Working and What’s Not

For India, the buildup play and pressing were impressive, but the final pass lacked precision. Chhetri and Chhangte were active but often isolated, with midfielders not pushing forward quickly enough to support attacks.

Defensively, India looked solid. Sandesh Jhingan and Rahul Bheke managed to keep Singapore’s forwards in check, preventing clear-cut chances.

Singapore, meanwhile, executed their defensive game plan effectively — staying compact, defending deep, and relying on quick transitions.

What to Expect in the Second Half

As the second half begins, India will look to maintain possession but be more clinical. Udanta Singh could be introduced to add pace and unpredictability on the right wing.

Singapore will likely continue with their counter-attacking approach, hoping to capitalize on any defensive lapse from India.

Both teams need a win — India to stay on course for qualification and Singapore to keep their hopes alive in the group.

Fan Reactions on Social Media

Football fans across India took to social media to share their thoughts on the first half.
Many praised India’s attacking play but expressed frustration at the missed opportunities.

One user wrote on X (Twitter):

“Dominating but not scoring — classic India problem! We need a goal soon!”

Another fan commented:

“Chhetri is doing everything possible. Just one good cross or rebound, and it’s in!”

Singaporean fans, on the other hand, applauded their team’s disciplined defending and tactical awareness, hoping to hold India off for another 45 minutes.

Expert Commentary

Former India international Renedy Singh shared his view during halftime analysis:

“India have done most things right except finishing. They are controlling the game, creating chances, and showing intent. One goal will open the floodgates.”

Sports analyst Anirudh Menon added:

“Singapore are well-drilled defensively. If India can stay patient and keep moving the ball quickly, the breakthrough will come.”

The Bigger Picture

This match is not just about three points — it’s about momentum and confidence. India’s performances in recent months have shown steady improvement, with young players stepping up under senior guidance.

A win here would strengthen India’s qualification hopes and boost morale ahead of tougher fixtures. For Singapore, even a draw would be a respectable result against a higher-ranked opponent.