GOA — The Singapore Men’s National Team reignited their AFC Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2027 qualifying campaign in style, coming from behind to earn a spirited 2–1 victory over India at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday night.

The Lions showed both resilience and ruthlessness, with midfielder Song Uiyoung the hero of the night after netting in each half to overturn Lallianzuala Chhangte’s early opener for the hosts. The result lifts Singapore level on points with Hong Kong, China, at the top of Group C, setting up a tantalising decider in next month’s clash between the two sides.

India, roared on by a home crowd in Goa, made a bright start and deservedly took the lead through Chhangte’s stunning strike midway through the first half. Singapore struggled to find their rhythm early on, with India’s high press and physicality causing problems in midfield.

But just before the interval, Song restored parity with a composed finish, capitalising on one of Singapore’s few first-half openings. That goal proved crucial, settling the visitors and giving them belief heading into the second period.

Head coach Gavin Lee’s halftime talk seemed to spark a transformation. The Lions came out sharper, more aggressive in duels, and quicker in transition. Their attacking intent paid off in the 57th minute, when a sweeping move involving all three forwards ended with Song tucking home his second of the night to put Singapore ahead 2–1.

From then on, the Lions showed tactical maturity, as substitutes Lionel Tan and Jacob Mahler were introduced to solidify midfield control, while a late cameo for Jordan provided valuable minutes and confidence for the young striker.

Chances were scarce in the closing stages, but Singapore’s defence stood firm, learning from previous lapses to see out a vital away win.

Speaking after the match, head coach Gavin Lee praised his side’s fighting spirit and discipline. “We knew away games in the qualifiers would never be easy. The boys emptied their tanks defending those crosses and penalty-box moments. I thought it was well deserved for the team,” he said.

“We didn’t start well, we lost too many duels and allowed India to dominate, but we reminded the players of our non-negotiables at halftime. The response was excellent. We’ve done the job to put ourselves back in contention, and now the focus turns to Hong Kong.”

Match-winner Song Uiyoung credited the team’s composure under pressure and adaptability against India’s relentless pressing: “The first 25 minutes were really tough, India pressed hard and made it difficult to build up. But we found a way to escape and control the game. I’m very happy to score for the team and help us get three points,” said the midfielder. “It’s very close now between Hong Kong and Singapore. We’ll take it game by game and give everything again next month.”

For India, the result likely ends their qualification hopes. Head coach Khaled Jamil lamented his side’s lack of composure despite a promising start: “We played well in the first half, but we conceded just before the break and that changed the game. It’s not good to lose at home after playing good football, but we have to rectify our mistakes and keep our hope alive,” he reflected.

With Hong Kong, China held to a 1–1 draw by Bangladesh earlier in the evening, Singapore’s victory sets up a dramatic finale in Group C. The Lions will host Hong Kong on 18 November, with top spot, and potentially a place in the next stage of Asian Cup qualifying, on the line.

Final Score: India 1–2 Singapore
Scorers: Chhangte (India, 22’), Song Uiyoung (Singapore, 44’, 57’)
Venue: Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa
Competition: AFC Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers – Group C