India suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Hong Kong on Tuesday at Kowloon’s Kai Tak Stadium in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifier. Stefan Pereira scored the winner from the penalty spot during added time.

Coach Makes Key Line-up Changes

Before the match, head coach Manolo Marquez made three changes to India’s starting eleven. Suresh Singh Wangjam replaced Ayush Dev Chhetri in midfield. Brandon Fernandes and Lallianzuala Chhangte came in for Sunil Chhetri and Manvir Singh. Ashique Kuruniyan led the attack.

Fast Start But No Goals

Both teams began with urgency as they had dropped points in their first group games. The early minutes saw end-to-end play. However, no team could create a clear scoring chance.

In the 25th minute, Hong Kong’s Raphael Lee tested Indian keeper Vishal Kaith from long range, but Kaith saved it. Shortly after, Liston Colaco tried from distance at the other end, but the shot lacked power.

Defensive Heroics and Missed Chances

Around the 30th minute, Anwar Ali made a vital tackle near the edge of the box to stop a threatening Hong Kong move.

India’s best first-half chance came in the 35th minute. Brandon Fernandes won the ball in midfield and passed it to Colaco. Colaco sent a sharp through ball to Ashique, who fired off-target from close range.

Just before the break, Juninho tried a quick free-kick for Hong Kong, but India’s defence stayed alert. The first half ended 0-0.

Second Half Changes and Close Calls

Five minutes into the second half, Ashique missed another chance with a half-turn shot. Soon, he showed signs of discomfort. In the 57th minute, Sunil Chhetri replaced Ashique. Naorem Mahesh Singh came on for Brandon Fernandes.

Shortly after, Wangjam lost the ball in a dangerous area. Manuel Rodriguez fired a shot, but Kaith tipped it over the bar.

India Push for a Goal

In the 80th minute, Mahesh and Chhetri combined well. Chhetri played a clever ball to Colaco, but his shot went wide. Moments later, Chhangte made a driving run and fed Chhetri, whose shot was blocked for a corner.

Late Penalty Seals India’s Fate

In the first minute of injury time, Vishal Kaith conceded a penalty. Stefan Pereira took it and scored. His shot hit the inside of the post and rolled in.

Final Standings

The loss left India with just one point from two matches. On the other hand, Hong Kong moved up to four points and gained a strong position in the group.