Tonight might not have changed the Blue Tigers’ fate, but it certainly lifted their mood.
India signed off their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers campaign with a gritty 2-1 win over Hong Kong in Kochi on Tuesday — and at the heart of it all was a debut to remember from Ryan Williams.
Williams Makes Almost-Instant History
Just four minutes into the game, the Australian-born winger latched onto a rapid counter-attack and coolly finished a move set up by Manvir Singh.
That strike didn’t just give India an early lead — it made history.
Williams’ goal is now the fastest ever scored by a debutant in the Indian men’s national football team history.
India Build, Mishra Delivers
Despite the early breakthrough, India had to stay sharp. Hong Kong looked to respond
but struggled to break through a disciplined Indian defence, as the hosts carried their 1-0 lead into the break.
After halftime, Khalid Jamil’s side doubled their advantage. In the 50th minute, Akash Mishra smashed home his first international goal — pouncing on a long throw-in from Rahul Bheke that caused chaos in the Hong Kong box.
At 2-0, India looked in control. But the night wasn’t without nerves.
Late Scare, Gritty Finish
Hong Kong pulled one back in the 65th minute through Everton Camargo, capitalising on a brief lapse in concentration.
Moments later, India suffered another setback as Williams was forced off in the 69th minute with a suspected injury.
What followed was a tense, scrappy finish. India dug deep, absorbed pressure, and held their ground to see out the win.
Ending On A Positive Note
While India had already been knocked out of contention, finishing bottom of Group C with five points, this win marked the first home win for Jamil as national team coach and offered a much-needed morale boost for the team.
(with agency inputs)
