India takes on Hong Kong in Asia Cup qualifier

India will take on Hong Kong, China on Matchday 2 in Group C of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round on Tuesday at the Kai Tak Stadium in Kowloon (Hong Kong).

Hyderabad: India will take on Hong Kong, China on Matchday 2 in Group C of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round on Tuesday at the Kai Tak Stadium in Kowloon (Hong Kong).

The Group C table is still a clean slate, with all four teams level on a point apiece after both games on Matchday 1 on March 25 ended goalless. India and Bangladesh drew in Shillong, while Hong Kong also got a point away to Singapore.

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Only the group winners will qualify for the Asian Cup in 2027. India, who made it to two successive Asian Cups for the first time in 2023, are aiming to extend the historic streak. Hong Kong also qualified for the previous tournament, but with only one available berth, either side is bound to miss out.

India head coach Manolo Márquez exuded confidence on the eve of the Blue Tigers’ clash against Hong Kong.

“Our preparations have been much better this time, if we compare with the previous FIFA windows, where you practically don’t have too much time. We had about three weeks to prepare, between Kolkata, Bangkok, and here in Hong Kong. And we are ready to perform. Nothing special,” said Márquez.

“The environment in the team is quite good as well. Obviously, in all teams across the world, the environment is better when you are winning games constantly. But the environment, the relationship between the players, regardless of the results, is very good,” he said.

India centre-back Konsham Chinglensana Singh echoed the coach’s words.

“We are well prepared for the game after three weeks in the camp. Mentally, and physically, we have prepared well, and are ready for the game,” he said.