India Beat Hong kong!

In a historic conclusion to their AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign, India secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Hong Kong, China, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on March 31, 2026. This match was significant not only as the return of international football to the venue after a decade but also for the landmark debut of Australian-born winger Ryan Williams. Williams made an immediate impact, scoring in just the fourth minute the fastest-ever goal by an Indian debutant. He latched onto a precise low cross from Manvir Singh after a clinical team move, delighting the crowd of over 22,000 fans.

Under the guidance of coach Khalid Jamil, the "Blue Tigers" controlled the tempo for much of the first half, with midfielders Apuia and Liston Colaco testing the opposition’s resolve. The lead was doubled in the 50th minute when left-back Akash Mishra reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the box following a long throw from Rahul Bheke. Mishra’s powerful strike from an acute angle marked his first international goal. While Hong Kong’s Everton Camargo pulled one back in the 65th minute to create a tense finish, India’s defense, led by Sandesh Jhingan and goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, remained organized. Local favorite Bijoy Varghese also made a late appearance to help see out the game.Although India was already out of contention for the tournament, this win provided a crucial morale boost and ensured they finished the qualification round on a high note.