Hong Kong, China on Tuesday won their Group C matchup against India in qualifiers for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup finals in Saudi Arabia, beating India 1-0 in the squad’s debut game at the Kai Tak Stadium.
The match was played in front of the largest home crowd for a Hong Kong football match in history, with the 42,500 fans making it an amazing and feisty atmosphere.
The SAR won the game with a second-half injury time penalty after Michael Udebuluzor was fouled in the box.
Stefan Pereira calmly scored the winning penalty, sending the Kai Tak Sports Park into a frenzy.
India had a few chances with their striker Muhammed Ashique Kuruniyan missing a point blank shot in the 34th minute.
The team’s legendary striker Sunil Chhetri – who came out of retirement to help his squad – played in the second half but to no avail.
Group C remains incredibly open for all sides, as Hong Kong, China take a huge step towards the finals in Saudi Arabia in 2027.
