India has a 1-0 defeat to Hong Kong in 2027 AFC Asia Cup qualifier.

Earlier, India coach Manolo Marques kept veteran striker Sunil Chhetri out of the early XI. At the Kai Tech Stadium, the local spectators gathered in large numbers in support of the hosts, but India performed well by creating some opportunities in the first half. Hong Kong, however, kept the ball in his possession for a long time.

Once again, the lack of finishing in the first 45 minutes disappointed the Indian team. The Indian team was closest to scoring in the 35th minute of the opportunities that met before half time, but Aashiq Kurunian killed the shot on the cross of Liston Kolaso. Liston Kolaso ​​put a powerful shot from long distance but went straight to the goalkeeper’s gloves.

Before half time, Hong Kong got a chance to score but after Kath missed the free kick, Ashish Rai postponed the crisis. Indian coach Manolo fielded Sunil Chhetri in the second half with Kurunian and Brandon Fernandes with Naorem Singh. India also made opportunities in the second half but did not succeed in scoring goals. In the 81st minute of the match, Chhetri missed near Lallianjuala Chhangte. Lose to Hongkong is a shock for India. India had earlier played a goalless draw against Bangladesh in their first Asian Cup qualifying match at home in March.