Bahrain U23 Beaten by India in AFC Qualifiers Opener

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Late Shivaldo strike confirms defeat after Suhail’s first-half stunner

Bahrain’s under-23 Olympic football team began their AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers campaign with a 2-0 defeat to India at Suheim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha last night.

The result was a frustrating one for the young nationals, who created several clear chances but were punished for their lack of finishing.

Missed Chances Costly

Midfielder Mahmood Abdulla had a golden opportunity to put Bahrain ahead early on when he closed down India goalkeeper Sahil, stole the ball, and found himself facing an empty net — only to fire wide. Minutes later he missed again, failing to convert from close range.

India took full advantage in the 32nd minute when winger Muhammed Suhail produced a moment of individual brilliance. Receiving a long ball on the right, he twisted past his marker before curling a low shot into the bottom corner.

Bahrain fought back strongly in the second half and thought they had equalised through Sayed Mahmood Almoosawi, but his strike was ruled out for offside. Skipper Mubarak Binahmed and forward Abdulla Alsubaie also went close, but India’s defence held firm.

Late Blow in Stoppage Time

As the game entered stoppage time, the nationals were hit on the counter. Substitute Shivaldo Singh slid home from close range in the 95th minute to double India’s lead and seal Bahrain’s defeat.

Focus Shifts to Brunei and Qatar

Head coach Ali Abdulmajeed had urged his side to show some fight ahead of the qualifiers, and while the team showed energy and attacking intent, they will be left ruing missed opportunities and defensive lapses.

Bahrain now turn their attention to Saturday’s match with Brunei Darussalam, also in Doha, before facing hosts Qatar next Tuesday. Only the group winners and the four best runners-up across the 11 qualifying groups will advance to the finals in Saudi Arabia next year.

The nationals are bidding to return to the AFC U23 Asian Cup for the first time since 2020, when they competed in Bangkok.