India Faces Bangladesh in AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers Showdown

Dhaka, Bangladesh — India will face Bangladesh in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7:30 PM Indian Standard Time (IST). While both teams are already out of contention for the tournament, the matchup promises to deliver fierce competition fueled by their historic rivalry.

The Indian football team, known as the Blue Tigers, currently sits at the bottom of Group C with two points from four matches. Bangladesh matches them with two points but claims a better spot in the standings due to scoring more goals. This encounter will be the 30th between the two teams, with India holding a historical advantage of 14 wins compared to Bangladesh’s four.

The match carries additional significance for Indian forward Ryan Williams, who an Australia international recently acquired an Indian passport. Although he is part of the traveling squad, his participation pending necessary approvals from Football Australia and FIFA.

Indian head coach Khalid Jamil expressed excitement for the game, stating, “We are happy to be here, and it is our pleasure to be in Bangladesh. Bangladesh is a good team, and it will be a good match.” Jamil has incorporated young talent in the lineup, with several players poised to make their international debuts, including goalkeeper Sahil and midfielder Hrithik Tiwari.

The anticipation in Dhaka is palpable, as tickets sold out quickly, with over 22,000 spectators expected to attend. Jamil emphasized the need for focus, stating, “It’s a very important game. We must think properly, stay calm, and aim for a positive result.”

Since the last meeting in March, which ended in a goalless draw, both teams have undergone changes. The Indian squad trained intensively in Bengaluru and is prepared to take on the host team. Despite the eliminations from the qualification race, both squads are eager to finish strongly in the group and gain crucial FIFA ranking points.

Live streaming of the match will be available on the FanCode app and website, with no television broadcast in India. As the teams prepare for the clash, both players and fans alike eagerly anticipate what is sure to be an intense and competitive encounter.