India Secures Victory Against Hong Kong in AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

In a significant match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, India triumphed over Hong Kong with a score of 2-1, marking their first victory in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers. Debutant Ryan Williams and Akash Mishra scored for India, helping the team finish their campaign with five points. Despite a strong performance from Hong Kong, India held on to secure the win in front of a passionate home crowd. This victory not only boosts morale but also showcases the potential of the Indian football team as they look ahead to future competitions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 1, 2026, 00:11 IST

India Triumphs in AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

In a thrilling match held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on March 31, 2026, the Indian football team celebrated a much-needed victory, defeating Hong Kong 2-1 in the final round of Group C for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers. The Blue Tigers secured their first win of the qualifying campaign, thanks to early goals from debutant Ryan Williams and left-back Akash Mishra. With this win, India concluded their campaign with five points, comprising one victory, two draws, and three losses. Singapore emerged as the group leader with 14 points, earning a spot in the Asian Cup.

Head Coach Khalid Jamil gave a long-awaited debut to Ryan Williams, who made an immediate impact by scoring in the fourth minute. A quick transition down the right flank saw Abhishek Singh Tekcham pass to Manvir Singh, who set up Williams for a simple tap-in. This goal marked the fastest debut goal for India, breaking the previous record held since 1963.

Following the early lead, India played confidently, dominating possession and controlling the game's tempo. Manvir Singh attempted to find Lallianzuala Chhangte with a cross, but a Hong Kong defender intervened. The Indian defense effectively neutralized Hong Kong's attacks, consistently surrounding their forwards and limiting their chances.

India looked dangerous on counter-attacks, with Williams and Manvir combining well. Apuia nearly doubled the lead with a long-range effort that went just wide. Hong Kong struggled to penetrate the Indian defense, which held firm to maintain their one-goal advantage at halftime.

The second half began with India continuing their strong performance. A long throw from Rahul Bheke was not cleared, allowing Akash Mishra to score his first international goal, extending India's lead to 2-0. However, Hong Kong responded shortly after, with Everton Camargo scoring to reduce the deficit.

India's coach made tactical changes due to injuries, bringing in Ashique Kuruniyan and Jeakson Singh Thounaojam. Ashique's introduction added vigor to the attack, resulting in multiple attempts on goal. Despite Hong Kong's efforts, including a header from Jason Kam, India’s goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu remained vigilant, making crucial saves.

In the closing moments, Bijoy Varghese made his international debut, helping to secure the victory with a vital tackle. Ultimately, India held on to their lead, winning in front of a supportive crowd of 22,690 in Kochi.

India's lineup included: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK), Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali (Jeakson Singh Thounaojam 70’), Sandesh Jhingan, Akash Mishra (Roshan Singh Naorem 84’), Lallianzuala Chhangte (Bijoy Varghese 90’), Lalengmawia, Manvir Singh, Ryan Williams (Ashique Kuruniyan 70’), Abhishek Singh Tekcham, Liston Colaco.