India Fall to Late Penalty Against Hong Kong in AFC Qualifiers
India’s hopes of a strong start to the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers were dashed as they suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat to Hong Kong on Tuesday evening. The match, played at the Kai Tak Stadium, remained goalless until a 90th-minute penalty gave the hosts all three points, extending India’s winless run in international fixtures.
Missed Chances and Costly Error
The first half saw both sides create goal-scoring opportunities. India came closest in the 35th minute when Ashique Kuruniyan missed a sitter from close range. Hong Kong too had their chances, including a goal-line clearance that denied them the opener.
The second half was more intense, with both teams pushing for a breakthrough. Sunil Chhetri, coming off the bench, nearly rescued India in the final minutes. But a critical misjudgment by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, who fouled a Hong Kong forward while attempting a clearance, handed the hosts a golden chance.
Stefan Perreira stepped up and coolly slotted the penalty home in the 90th minute.
Key Highlights
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⚽ Full-time Score: India 0-1 Hong Kong
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❌ Ashique missed a crucial chance in the 35th minute
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🟨 Vishal Kaith booked after conceding a late penalty
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✅ Stefan Perreira scored the winner in the 90th minute
What This Means for India
This marks India’s second consecutive loss in 2025 and places pressure on the Blue Tigers as they look ahead to tougher fixtures in the qualification campaign. Coach Igor Štimac will be looking to regroup quickly ahead of the next must-win match.
Conclusion
With back-to-back defeats, the road to the AFC Asian Cup 2027 is becoming steeper for India. All eyes will now turn to their next encounter, where only a win can keep qualification hopes alive.
