Ryan Williams marked his debut with a sensational goal as India defeated Hong Kong, China 2-1 to end their AFC Asian Cup qualifier campaign on a high in Kochi on Tuesday, March 31. All eyes were firmly on Williams, who obliged by scoring in the fourth minute, the fastest by a debutant in the history of the Indian men’s national team.
Apart from Williams, Akash Mishra was on target in the second half, which was his maiden goal for the senior team. Hong Kong were to cut down the deficit in the 65th minute through Everton Camarago, but Khalid Jamil’s side held on to secure the win, their first one in Kochi.
Already out of contention for making it to the Asian Cup, India ended their campaign with five points, getting a win and two draws. India had lost 0-1 to Hong Kong in the reverse fixture and were hoping to provide some early cheer for the crowd in Kochi. And it was Williams, the new No.10, who stepped up.
He slotted it home with a first-time effort after being set up by Manvir Singh. Williams was included in the squad after FIFA allowed him to change his association. This was also his international debut as he hadn’t played for Australia earlier.
The front four of Williams, Manvir, Lallianzuala Chhangte and Liston Colaco continued to test the Hong Kong defence while the makeshift midfield of Anwar Ali and Apuia held their own despite being put under pressure.
India began the second half just as they had the first, with Akash Mishra doubling the lead only four minutes after the restart, sweeping home the rebound following a scramble sparked by Rahul Bheke’s long throw into the Hong Kong box.
A mistake at the back meant that Hong Kong capitalised and pulled one back but the Indian team still had chances in the second half through Ashique Kuruniyan to make the score a bit more emphatic. But despite being under pressure in the closing moments, India closed off things strongly.
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