Kochi, March 31 -- India ended their wait for a win at Kochi, edging past Hong Kong 2-1 to end the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round Group C campaign on a high at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Early strikes from debutant Ryan Williams and left-back Akash Mishra in either half ensured the Blue Tigers secure their first win of the qualifying campaign. India ended their campaign on five points, with a win, two draws and three losses. Singapore topped the group with 14 points to seal qualification for the Asian Cup.
Head Coach Khalid Jamil handed a much-awaited debut to Ryan Williams, while Bijoy Varghese also made his first India appearance off the bench.
India made a perfect start to the game...