India Secures First Win in AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers Against Hong Kong

In a thrilling encounter, India achieved their first victory in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers by defeating Hong Kong 2-1 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Debutant Ryan Williams opened the scoring early, followed by Akash Mishra's goal that doubled the lead. Despite a late response from Hong Kong, India held on for the win, finishing their campaign with five points. This match showcased promising performances from new players and solidified India's competitive spirit in the qualifiers.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 31, 2026, 23:34 IST

India Clinches Victory in Kochi

In a thrilling match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday, India celebrated their first victory in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers by narrowly defeating Hong Kong 2-1. The Blue Tigers concluded their Group C campaign with a total of five points, comprising one win, two draws, and three losses. Singapore emerged as the group leader with 14 points, securing their spot in the Asian Cup, according to a press release.

Debut Goals and Strong Performances

Head Coach Khalid Jamil introduced Ryan Williams for his much-anticipated debut, while Bijoy Varghese also made his first appearance for the national team as a substitute.

Early Strike Gives India the Lead

India kicked off the match with an impressive start, as Ryan Williams scored just four minutes in, marking a memorable debut. A quick play down the right saw Abhishek Singh Tekcham pass to Manvir Singh, who set up Williams for a simple tap-in, making it the fastest goal by a debutant in Indian football history, breaking the previous record held since 1963.

Following the goal, India displayed confidence, maintaining possession and controlling the game's pace. Manvir Singh attempted to find Lallianzuala Chhangte with a cross, but a Hong Kong defender intervened effectively.

The Indian defense was resolute, limiting Hong Kong's attackers' opportunities by surrounding them with multiple players whenever they threatened.

Counter-Attacks and Near Misses

India looked dangerous on the counter, with Williams passing to Manvir, who flicked it to Chhangte. The winger's shot was blocked by Hong Kong's Shinichi Chan, resulting in a corner.

Apuia nearly extended the lead in the 25th minute, but his long-range effort went just wide after a swift counter-attack involving Manvir and Williams. Hong Kong attempted to respond by working the ball into wide areas, but India's defense held firm, ensuring they maintained their lead at halftime.

Mishra Doubles the Advantage

The second half began with India continuing their strong performance. A long throw from Rahul Bheke was not cleared, allowing Akash Mishra to react quickly and score from a tight angle, marking his first international goal and doubling India's lead.

Hong Kong Pulls One Back

However, just after the hour mark, Hong Kong managed to reduce the deficit when Braunshtain Barak found Everton Camargo, who finished past Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, making the score 2-1.