As the qualifiers for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 intensify, India’s men’s football team is confident they can beat Hong Kong China to get their first win. Planned for Tuesday evening at the Hong Kong Stadium as a part of India’s World Cup Qualifiers, this match is important after how their journey started.
The team started the third round by tying Bangladesh 0-0, causing both fans and experts to wonder about the group’s offensive play. With only one point in Group C, India’s Blue Tigers now feel the need to score from the chances they create.
Sunil Chhetri vs Ashley Westwood: A Clash of History and Tactics
There will be strong emotions and plenty of strategy involved because Sunil Chhetri, India’s legendary captain, plays against his former trainer, Ashley Westwood. During his work with Bengaluru FC (2013–2016) and ATK and Roundglass Punjab, Westwood got to know the strengths and weaknesses of the Indian team.
Under Westwood, Bengaluru FC managed to get many domestic trophies, a time when Chhetri was playing his best. Now, both the teacher and student take part in a contest that may steer their future in terms of qualification.
Recently, India announced it would play the match with 25 players after sending the goalkeeper, defender, and full-back home. Since he experienced an injury before the Thailand match, Bose did not join the team in Hong Kong. The not-so-favorable 2-0 result against Thailand worries people about India’s ability to mix and match its players and guard the goal.
Even though India is ranked lower than Hong Kong China in FIFA, its history against the team in games has been better, but lately, things have not gone their way. During the AFC Asian Cup 2023 Qualifying matches in 2022, India defeated Afghanistan by 4-0, with strikes from Chhetri, Anwar Ali, Ishan Pandita, and Manvir Singh. But before, Hong Kong China had defeated India in 2009 and 2010, which highlights that the rivalry should not be ignored.
Hong Kong China’s Strategy Under Westwood
Placed 153rd in the world rankings, Hong Kong China faced Singapore for a goalless draw in the initial qualifier round. Thanks to their fans and Westwood’s understanding of the Indian players, they are ready to go for the win.
Thanks to his many years coaching in India and being a guest commentator for the Indian Super League, Westwood’s advice can provide Hong Kong with an advantage when planning for and during games.
Head-to-Head Record: A Tight History
The head-to-head between the two nations remains closely contested:
- Matches Played: 24
- India Wins: 9
- Hong Kong China Wins: 8
- Draws: 7
To put it simply, India has never achieved much success away from home, as shown by their one win against Hong Kong China in 1957 (with a 2-1 victory).
Where and How to Watch the Match
Indian fans can enjoy football by watching it live on Star Sports 3 or watching the online stream on FanCode’s app and website. Because both sides want victory and numerous storylines are in place, this game looks set to be filled with excitement and might make a difference for India’s chances.
Indian Squad for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers encounter with Hong Kong China
- Goalkeepers: Vishal Kaith, Gurmeet Singh Chahal, Amrinder Singh
- Rahul Bheke, Roshan Singh, Anwar Ali, Sandesh Jhingan, Boris Singh, and Asish Rai are the main defenders in the team.
- Lalengmawia Ralte, Suresh Singh, Mahesh Singh, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Brandon Fernandes are the midfielders.
- Sunil Chhetri, Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Udanta Singh, Suhail Ahmad Bhat, Edmund Lalrindika are some of the team’s forwards.
Since the qualifiers are nearing the last few matches, the upcoming India vs Hong Kong China football match matters because both teams need to show skill, determination, and guidance.
