India beat Hong Kong 2-1 as Ryan Williams scores on debut
The India national football team signed off their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers campaign with a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Hong Kong national football team at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on March 31, 2026.
Despite being already out of contention for qualification, India delivered an energetic performance to register their only win in the third round, ending the campaign on a positive note.
Match Summary: India vs Hong Kong
India got off to a dream start as debutant Ryan Williams found the back of the net in just the 4th minute, giving the hosts an early lead. The winger’s impact was immediate, injecting pace and creativity into India’s attack.
The hosts continued to dominate possession and doubled their advantage early in the second half when Akash Mishra scored from a tight angle in the 50th minute, making it 2-0.
Hong Kong responded in the 65th minute through Everton Camargowho reduced the deficit and briefly put pressure on the Indian defence. However, India held firm in the closing stages to secure the win.
What This Win Means for India
While India finished at the bottom of Group C, this victory was their first win in the third round of qualifiersoffering a much-needed confidence boost.
The result reflects improved attacking intent and individual performances, particularly from debutant Williams and full-back Mishra.
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