Overview

• Head coach Khalid Jamil pledged an “attacking mode from the start” for his home debut and signaled changes to the starting XI.
• India are without suspended defender Sandesh Jhingan, with Subhasish Bose called in and midfielder Lalengmawia ‘Apuia’ Ralte recalled for control in midfield.
• Singapore sit second on five points and must cover suspensions to Shah Shahiran and Ryhan Stewart, while Safuwan Baharudin faces a late fitness test.
• The first leg finished 1-1 after Rahim Ali’s 90th‑minute equaliser for 10‑man India, keeping both teams’ hopes in play.
• Even with a win in Margao, India will still need help elsewhere to top the group, with Hong Kong currently leading the standings.