The city of Dhaka, which had been uncharacteristically quiet in the days leading up to the International Crimes Tribunal's verdict on former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, abruptly returned to its typical bustling self on Tuesday. The change in atmosphere was driven by intense anticipation for a high-stakes football match: the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers fixture between Bangladesh and neighbors India.
In a massive victory that ended a 22-year drought against their rivals, the Bangladesh football team defeated India 1-0. The winning goal came in the first half from a superb finish by Sheikh Morsalin. The decisive moment occurred in the 12th minute. Midfielder Rakib delivered a ball into the box, which Morsalin intercepted, managing to toe-poke it past Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. The goal ignited "wild celebrations" among the home crowd at the National Stadium.
For the rest of the game, the Bangladesh side fiercely defended their narrow lead, successfully thwarting a relentless and "desperate Indian attack" to hold onto the 1-0 scoreline. This victory was particularly significant as it marked Bangladesh's first win over India since the 2003 SAFF Championship, where goals from Rokonuzzaman Kanchan and Matiur Rahman Munna secured a 2–1 result.
The win provided a major morale boost, lifting the team out of the frustration of an otherwise winless qualifying campaign. Despite being sidelined, Captain Jamal Bhuiya shared in the triumph, witnessing his team break their long spell of disappointment.
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