As the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round rolls into its second Matchday, Group C’s most anticipated clash takes center stage: India vs Hong Kong.
Both sides are chasing their first win of the campaign after opening draws and are now primed for a crucial contest that could define their qualifying hopes.
Ranked 127th in the world and placed in Pot 1, India entered the qualifiers as group favourites. But a frustrating 0-0 draw against Bangladesh in March left the Blue Tigers needing a course correction. For Hong Kong, a 1-1 draw in Singapore offered little more optimism. So when the two highest-ranked sides in Group C meet at the iconic new Kai Tak Stadium, there’s more than just three points on the line — there’s qualification momentum at stake.
A Historic Day for Hong Kong
June 10 isn’t just matchday; it’s history in the making for Hong Kong football. The game marks the first-ever football match at the brand-new Kai Tak Stadium, a 50,000-seater venue built on the site of the city’s old airport. With a retractable roof and a HK$30 billion investment, the stadium is a part of the massive Kai Tak Sports Park — the largest sports facility in Hong Kong’s history.
Naturally, local fans are buzzing. The Hong Kong FA has announced a near sell-out crowd, and with India’s large diaspora, the stands are expected to be vocal from both camps.
Head-to-Head: India Lead, But Only Just
This will be the 25th meeting between India and Hong Kong, dating back to 1951. India lead the head-to-head with 9 wins to Hong Kong’s 8, with 7 draws. But the historical advantage flattens when considering matches in Hong Kong. In fact, India have won just once on Hong Kong soil — a 2-1 friendly back in 1957.
The last meeting, however, is still fresh in Indian fans’ memories. In June 2022, at the VYBK in Kolkata, India thumped Hong Kong 4-0 in an Asian Cup qualifier. Goals from Anwar Ali, Sunil Chhetri, Manvir Singh, and Ishan Pandita sealed a dominant win in front of a raucous home crowd. But much has changed since.
New Faces, New Forces
Hong Kong have undergone a significant transformation under Ashley Westwood, who took charge in August 2024. A familiar face in Indian football, Westwood guided Bengaluru FC to their early domestic successes and also coached ATK and RoundGlass Punjab.
Under his tenure, Hong Kong have only lost once in 12 matches, and even that was a tight 0-1 result against Liechtenstein. While most of their victories have come against lower-ranked sides, the team is showing signs of defensive stability and tactical growth.
Adding to India’s challenge is a wave of naturalised talent in the Hong Kong ranks. Brazilian-born players like Juninho, Dudu, Stefan Pereira, and Fernando bring attacking flair and international experience. Spanish striker Manolo Bleda and Japan-born midfielder Sohgo Ichikawa have also debuted recently, further internationalising the squad. Many of these players ply their trade in the competitive Hong Kong Premier League or the Chinese Super League.
On the Indian side, the team is still settling under new head coach Manolo Márquez. The Spaniard took over the reins post the World Cup qualifiers and has been trying to instill a more proactive style of play. India’s recent 0-2 loss to Thailand in a friendly raised concerns about goal conversion, but the coaching staff remains optimistic.
Assistant coach Mahesh Gawali, who last played in Hong Kong in 2009, reflected on the past while urging focus on the present. “That game had an electric atmosphere. We equalised through Bhaichung [Bhutia] but lost in injury time. This time around, we need to be tighter and more composed,” he said to AIFF.
Key Voices and Tactical Insights
Defender Sandesh Jhingan, one of India’s most experienced internationals, emphasised caution. “It was a big win in 2022, but this is a new Hong Kong side with a new coach. On away soil, every game is tough. We have to approach this one with full concentration.”
Birthday boy Lallianzuala Chhangte, who turned 28 on Sunday, echoed similar sentiments. “Hong Kong defend well and are dangerous on the counter. With a coach who knows Indian football inside out, they’ll be well-prepared. We need to play with intent and discipline.”
Adding further intrigue is goalkeeping coach Marc Gamon, who spent two years coaching in the Hong Kong Premier League. “Football is the most followed team sport in Hong Kong. The stadium will be buzzing. But we’ll have Indian support here too — it’ll feel like a derby,” he said.
With only one team assured direct qualification from each group, three points in this fixture could prove decisive. Both teams are desperate to break away from the pack, which also includes Singapore and Bangladesh, each sitting on one point.
For India, it’s a test of resilience and adaptability. For Hong Kong, it’s a chance to rise to the occasion at home and under lights at their glittering new stadium.
No matter which way it swings, Kai Tak Stadium’s football debut promises to deliver drama, intensity, and perhaps, a defining moment in either side’s journey to Saudi Arabia 2027.
All quotes are from AIFF.