The Indian national football team's journey in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers has suffered a setback following a 1-0 defeat to Hong Kong on June 10, 2025. The match, held at the Kai Tak Sports Park in Kowloon, saw a late penalty awarded to Hong Kong, which substitute Stefan Pereira converted in the 94th minute, leaving the Blue Tigers with a bitter defeat.
India's performance against Hong Kong was a mixed bag. While the team showed spirit and created opportunities, they failed to capitalize on them. In the first half, India matched Hong Kong's intensity, registering two shots on target. Ashique Kuruniyan missed a crucial chance in the 39th minute, failing to convert a cross from Liston Colaco. The defense, led by Sandesh Jhingan and Anwar Ali, stood firm for much of the match, with goalkeeper Vishal Kaith making some important saves. However, a moment of miscommunication in added time led to Kaith colliding with Hong Kong's Udebuluzor in the penalty area, resulting in the decisive penalty.
With this loss, India is now at the bottom of Group C with just one point from two matches. Singapore currently tops the group after defeating Bangladesh 2-1, while Hong Kong is in second place. Only the winner of each group is guaranteed a spot in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Despite the defeat, India's qualification hopes are not entirely over. To qualify, India would likely need to win all of their remaining matches. India's next match is against Singapore on October 9th.
The loss against Hong Kong marks a contrast to India's dominant 4-0 victory over the same opponent in the 2023 Asian Cup qualifiers. It also continues a troubling trend for the Blue Tigers, who have struggled to find the net under coach Manolo Marquez. In eight matches under Marquez, India has failed to score in five, including the recent match against Hong Kong.
Looking ahead, India needs to address its shortcomings in both attack and defense. The team needs to be more clinical in front of goal and avoid costly errors at the back. With tough matches against Singapore and Bangladesh still to come, the Blue Tigers will need to dig deep and show their resilience if they are to have any chance of qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup 2027.
