Ryan Williams scored a sensational goal on his debut as India beat Hong Kong, China 2-1 to end their AFC Asian Cup qualification campaign in Kochi on Tuesday, March 31. All eyes were firmly on Williams, who committed to score in the fourth minute, the fastest debutant in the history of the Indian men’s national team.
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Apart from Williams, Akash Mishra was on target in the second half, his first goal for the senior team. Hong Kong should have reduced the deficit through Everton Camarago in the 65th minute, but Khalid Jamil’s side held on to secure the win, their first in Kochi.
India, no longer in contention to qualify for the Asia Cup, finished their campaign with five points, a win and two draws. India lost 0-1 to Hong Kong in the reverse fixture and were hoping to thrill the Kochi crowd soon. And it was Williams, the new No. 10, who stepped up.
After being set up by Manvir Singh, he slotted home with his first effort. Williams was included in the squad after FIFA allowed him to change associations. This was also his international debut as he had not previously played for Australia.
The front four of Williams, Manvir, Lallianzuala Chhangte and Liston Colaco continued to test the Hong Kong defence, while makeshift midfield Anwar Ali and Apuia held their own despite the pressure.
India started the second half much like the first, with Akash Mishra doubling the lead just four minutes after the restart, sweeping home the rebound after a scrum sparked by Rahul Bheke’s long throw into the Hong Kong box.
A mistake at the back meant Hong Kong took advantage to pull one back, but the Indian side still had chances in the second half to make the scoreline a little more emphatic. But despite being under pressure in the closing moments, India closed things out strongly.
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Published on:
31 March 2026 10:29 IST
