Did Hong Kong Hand India Another AFC Asian Cup Defeat?

Kowloon (HK-China), June 10 (NationPress) The Indian national football squad suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of Hong Kong during the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, held at Kowloon’s Kai Tak Stadium on Tuesday. A last-minute penalty taken by Stefan Pereira clinched all three points for the home side. As a result, the Blue Tigers now find themselves with just one point from two matches, while Hong Kong advances to four points.

Both teams entered the match eager to redeem themselves after dropping points in their opening games, leading to a contest filled with urgency and attacking play. The initial moments featured thrilling back-and-forth action, yet neither team could create a clear scoring opportunity.

In the 25th minute, Raphael Lee of Hong Kong tested Indian goalkeeper Vishal Kaith with a long-range shot, which Kaith expertly saved. At the other end, Liston Colaco attempted a long-range effort, but it was comfortably gathered by the opposing goalkeeper.

Around the half-hour mark, Anwar Ali made a vital intervention, executing a perfectly timed tackle at the edge of the box to thwart a threatening move from Hong Kong. A slip here could have led to significant trouble for the Blue Tigers.

India’s most promising chance of the half arose in the 35th minute when Brandon Fernandes regained possession near midfield. He sent Liston Colaco through with a precise pass, but Ashique was unable to direct his shot on target from close range.

Just before halftime, Hong Kong almost broke the deadlock when Juninho attempted a quick free-kick to catch the Indian defense off guard, but they successfully deflected the threat, taking the teams into halftime at 0-0.

Five minutes into the second half, Ashique had another chance, but his shot went wide. In the 57th minute, he was substituted by Sunil Chhetri, while Naorem Mahesh Singh replaced Brandon Fernandes.

A few moments later, Wangjam lost possession in a precarious position, allowing Manuel Rodriguez a shot on goal, but Kaith tipped it over the bar, resulting in a corner.

In the 80th minute, Mahesh and Chhetri collaborated well, with Chhetri playing a through ball to Liston Colaco, whose attempt went wide. Shortly after, Lallianzuala Chhangte made a strong run, setting up Chhetri, whose shot was blocked for a corner by Leon Jones.

The critical moment arrived in the first minute of stoppage time when Kaith conceded a penalty. Pereira stepped up and his shot hit the inside of the post before rolling into the net, securing victory for Hong Kong.