The Indian Football Team endured heartbreak in Kowloon as a dramatic stoppage-time penalty saw them fall 0-1 to Hong Kong, China, in their AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round encounter at the newly inaugurated Kai Tak Stadium on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. Substitute Stefan Pereira’s coolly converted 94th-minute spot-kick sent the home fans into delirium and left the Blue Tigers ruing what might have been.
In front of a deafening crowd of 42,570 supporters, the loss meant India finished the night with only a solitary point from two matches in Group C. Singapore’s 2-1 victory over Bangladesh earlier in Dhaka saw them rise to the summit, while Hong Kong followed closely with the same number of points. Bangladesh and India now sit third and fourth, respectively, adding pressure on Igor Štimac’s men heading into October’s crucial clash against Singapore.
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Electrifying Atmosphere Welcomes Hong Kong’s Homecoming
Kowloon witnessed an unforgettable evening as the Kai Tak Stadium hosted its first major football event. The stands were brimming with passionate home supporters creating a cauldron of noise, willing their side forward with every attack. Feeding off that energy, Hong Kong began assertively, pushing India onto the back foot with sharp interplay, quick transitions, and relentless running.
Despite enjoying significant spells of possession, Hong Kong struggled to break down a well-organised Indian defensive unit. India, led expertly at the back by the experienced Sandesh Jhingan alongside the promising Anwar Ali, remained resolute. Their compact shape forced Hong Kong into speculative long-range attempts, comfortably dealt with by an assured Vishal Kaith between the posts.
Kaith was called into meaningful action in the 41st minute when Soares Junior Walter’s dangerous free-kick eluded several defenders and fell to Oliver Benjamin Gerbig at the far post. However, the Indian custodian reacted sharply to deny the attempt, with Anwar Ali completing the clearance.
Growing Confidence Before Halftime
While India took time to find their attacking rhythm, they gradually worked their way into proceedings midway through the opening period. Building patiently from midfield, Brandon Fernandes proved influential, dictating play with incisive passes and timely interceptions. The wingers – Liston Colaco, Lallianzuala Chhangte, and Ashique Kuruniyan – offered pace on the flanks, looking to exploit gaps left by Hong Kong’s adventurous full-backs.
India’s standout opportunity of the half came in the 35th minute. Fernandes capitalised on a misplaced pass and released Colaco in space. The Goan winger whipped a low, teasing cross that dissected the defence, only for Kuruniyan’s miscued effort to fly over the crossbar, much to the frustration of the Indian bench.
Second-Half Fightback Led by the Skipper
The restart saw India raise their intensity. Kuruniyan again found himself in promising territory just outside the area, but composure deserted him as his shot soared harmlessly over. Realising the need for a decisive presence upfront, head coach Manolo Márquez introduced the talismanic Sunil Chhetri just past the hour mark.
Chhetri, as always, injected composure and creativity. Dropping into pockets of space, he orchestrated India’s forays forward, linking well with his fellow attackers. The pivotal moment nearly arrived in the 82nd minute when Chhangte embarked on a marauding run down the right before cutting the ball back perfectly for Chhetri. His low drive was destined for the bottom corner, but a heroic Hong Kong block kept the scores level.
Late Drama Seals India’s Fate
Just when it appeared both teams would share the spoils, disaster struck deep into added time. A hopeful long ball floated ominously into the Indian penalty area. Kaith charged out to deal with it but misjudged the flight, colliding with Hong Kong’s Michael Udebuluzor in the process. Without hesitation, referee Sheikh Ahmad Alaeddin pointed to the spot while cautioning Kaith with a yellow card.
Substitute Stefan Pereira took responsibility, displaying nerves of steel to send Kaith the wrong way and nestle the ball into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations among the home faithful.
Looking Ahead with Determination
It was a devastating blow for the Blue Tigers, who had battled valiantly throughout the contest. Despite their disciplined approach and moments of attacking promise, India’s campaign has now been left precariously poised with must-win fixtures on the horizon.
October’s clash against Singapore is now pivotal. Qualification hopes may still flicker, but the Indian Football Team will need resilience, sharper execution in front of goal, and unwavering belief to turn things around.
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FAQs
What was the final score?
India lost 0-1 to Hong Kong after a 94th-minute penalty.
Why was the penalty given?
Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith collided with Michael Udebuluzor while trying to clear a long ball, leading to the spot-kick.
Where does India stand in Group C now?
India are fourth with one point from two games. Singapore lead the group.
Who stood out for India?
Brandon Fernandes impressed in midfield; Sunil Chhetri created key chances after coming on.
When is India’s next game?
India face Singapore in October 2025.
