Photo: BFF

DHAKA, Nov 18, 2025 (BSS) - Bangladesh took 1-0 lead against India in the first half of the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers held at National Stadium today.

From the outset, Bangladesh looked sharp, hungry and in complete control. The early breakthrough came in the 12nd minute following a counter attack. 

Forward Rakib Hossain darting down the left wing and provided a cross to onrushing Morsalin who made no mistake to send the ball home from close range giving no chance to Indian custodian Gurpreet who came forward to clear the ball. It was also the seventh international goal by Morsalin in Bangladesh jersey. 

India desperately tried to fight back in the match and came close of scoring in the 31st minute. Bangladesh almost conceded a goal due to goalkeeper Mitul Marma's mistake. Lallianzuala took a shot before the open net but Hamza cleared the goal-bound attempt saving his team from a certain goal at a cost of corner.

Earlier, Italian based midfielder Shamit Shome and Sheikh Morsalin have been included while Jamal Bhuyan and Sohel Rana Jr left out in the playing eleven against India.

Sohel Rana Sr. captained the day's encounter against India in replace of regular captain Jamal Bhuyan. 

Bangladesh squad - Mitul Marma (gk), Topu Barman, Tariq Raihan Kazi, Zayyan Ahmed, Md Saad Uddin, Shohel Rana (c), Shamit Shome, Hamza Choudhury, Shekh Morsalin, Md Goysal Ahmed Fahim, Rakib Hossain.