Bangladesh Defeat India After 22 Years

Bangladesh finally ended a 22-year winless streak against India, securing a landmark 1–0 victory in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers at the national stadium on Tuesday. The moment the referee blew the final whistle, midfielder Hamza Choudhury collapsed to the turf in exhaustion, immediately surrounded by jubilant teammates Sohel Rana, Topu Barman and others. It was more than just a win; it was the release of two decades of frustration.

The decisive goal came early in the 11th minute. A swift counter-attack, initiated by Rakib Hossain and finished clinically by Sheikh Morsalin, carved open India’s defence. After receiving a return cut-back from Rakib, Morsalin slipped past Akash Mishra and beat goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu with a composed finish. It marked the winger’s seventh international goal, and arguably his most important.

Bangladesh attempted to assert control after taking the lead. Sohel Rana and Shamit Shome dictated the tempo in midfield, feeding the wings where Rakib and Fahim repeatedly delivered threatening balls into the box. Yet the advantage remained slender. India regrouped after the break, creating two early opportunities but failing to convert. Bangladesh’s backline—marshalled by Topu, Shakil Ahad and Hamza—held firm.

The closing phases saw tension skyrocket. India pressed relentlessly during the six minutes of added time, while Bangladesh countered dangerously. A late run and shot by Shakil Ahad nearly doubled the lead but was saved brilliantly by Gurpreet.

With this victory, Bangladesh now stand on five points after five matches, while India remain on two. Their previous win over India dates back to January 2003. On this night, it was Morsalin who ensured the long-awaited breakthrough, delivering a triumph that will resonate in Bangladesh’s football narrative for years.