India’s men’s football team suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Hong Kong China in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers on Tuesday at the Kai Tak Stadium. The Blue Tigers conceded a stoppage-time penalty after a mishap by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, leaving them with just one point from two matches in Group C.
The match seemed destined for a goalless draw until the 94th minute, when substitute Stefan Pereira calmly converted a penalty after a collision between Kaith and Hong Kong China’s Michael Udebuluzor in India’s box. The penalty proved to be the decisive moment, leaving India in third place in Group C.
Hong Kong China began the game with high intensity, pressing India early with sharp movement and quick passing. Despite dominating possession, the hosts struggled to break through India’s resolute defense. Veteran defender Sandesh Jhingan, alongside young Anwar Ali, played crucial roles in shutting down most of Hong Kong China’s attacking efforts. Goalkeeper Kaith also stood strong, confidently handling several long-range attempts and smothering any rare threats.
India gradually grew into the game and created their best chance of the first half in the 35th minute. Brandon Fernandes intercepted a poor pass and sent Liston Colaco racing down the left wing. Colaco’s cross found Ashique Kuruniyan at the far post, but the striker blazed his shot over the bar.
Six minutes later, Hong Kong China had their own opportunity. A deep free-kick from Soares Junior Walter was flicked on by Oliver Benjamin Gerbig at the far post, but Kaith reacted swiftly to deny the shot with a timely block, allowing Anwar Ali to clear the danger.
The second half saw India come out with renewed energy. Kuruniyan had a chance to score just outside the box but couldn’t keep his shot on target. To add more attacking options, coach Manolo Márquez brought on captain Sunil Chhetri in the 60th minute.
Chhetri’s presence immediately made a difference. He dropped deep to link up play and created chances for his teammates. In the 82nd minute, Lallianzuala Chhangte’s cross from the right found Chhetri, but his shot was blocked by a Hong Kong China defender just in time.
As the match moved into injury time, India’s defense was undone by a long ball into their box. Kaith rushed out to clear but mistimed his jump, colliding with Udebuluzor. The referee awarded a penalty, and Pereira made no mistake, sending Kaith the wrong way to score the winner.
It was a cruel end to a match where India had defended well throughout. The Blue Tigers will now look to bounce back in their next AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers match against Singapore on October 9.
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