Sunil Chhetri shares his thoughts on India’s qualification chances for AFC Asian Cup 2027

India only have two points in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.

Fighting for a spot in the AFC Asian Cup 2027, the Indian national football team went down 1-0 in the first half against Singapore, courtesy of a goal by Ikhsan Fandi late in the first half. To add to this, Sandesh Jhingan was sent off in the 47th minute to add to India’s woes.

Both teams had their chances in the second half before Rahim Ali scored off a defensive error in the 90th minute to rescue one point for the Blue Tigers. The result was certainly not what the fans were hoping for; however, it does keep India in contention to qualify for the Asian Cup that will be played in Saudi Arabia.

Former Indian national team captain Sunil Chhetri shared his thoughts after the game. Here is what the talisman said.

Chhetri’s thoughts on Singapore vs India

On being asked about his thoughts after a 1-1 draw against Singapore, Sunil Chhetri said, “It was difficult, especially after the first goal and then the red card. It became very difficult.”

“It’s not easy to come over here. We are a decent side and we play very well at home. In the end, to get a result, which wasn’t easy, is quite satisfying.”

Can India still make it to the AFC Asian Cup 2027?

Owing to the last-minute draw against Singapore, the Indian football team has two points from their three AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying games. Asked about India’s chances to qualify, Chhetri said, “We just want to take one game at a time.”

“We didn’t start the tournament as we would have liked. First game against Bangladesh at home then losing the game at the last minute at Hong Kong. Thankfully today, we got the last minute goal and we got a point at least.”

The 41-year-old concluded by saying, “I think, not trying to think too much about the points and combinations. We just want to take the next game, recover well and try to win our first game in the group.”

Also Read: Singapore vs India: Rahim Ali’s rescue act, defensive lapses, and other talking points from AFC Asian Cup Qualifier

Is the lack of ISL affecting the Indian national football team?

The Indian Super League was postponed indefinitely as there was disagreement on the Master Rights Agreement between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the FSDL. While resolution is expected, there is still no confirmation on when the league will begin.

When asked if the lack of league football was affecting the Indian football team’s performance, Chhetri said, “Nah, the league will happen. In a few days, it will happen. The national team had a good run. We went to the CAFA Nations Cup, we played there, and we did well over there, had three good games. I don’t think it’s one of the reasons.”

Sunil Chhetri’s message for travelling fans?

India’s highest goal scorer also thanked the supporters after the 1-1 draw against the Singapore national football team. He said, “The ones who came over here, our supporters in Singapore, just want to thank them. Thank you so much for coming.”

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