Hong Kong recently completed their Asian Cup Group C qualifiers with a 2-1 defeat in Kochi, India. In what could be seen as a separate universe, several high octane matches were held to decide the last few World Cup 2026 slots to make up the final 48 teams.
Hong Kong and India were both Asian Cup finalists in 2023 though the dream ticket for the 2027 finals in Saudi Arabia has been truly and completely torn up. Singapore navigated a tough and competitive group and sealed their progress with their now historical away win at Kai Tak Sports Park.
India took the lead from Ryan Williams, who scored in the fourth minute with a close range finish in what can only be described as a perfect start. Williams was making his debut for India after giving up his Australian passport with his celebrations capturing how important this was in his footballing journey.
India made it 2-0 in the 50th minute when Askash Mishra slammed home the ball into the near post, from the left, after some chaos caused from a long throw.
Everton Carmago scored from the edge of the box in the 65th minute after an assist from Barak Braunshtain. Carmago taking the full force of a crunching tackle to pull a goal back.
An entertaining game ended 2 to 1 to India. A chance for interim coach, Roberto Losada, to build a team in his own formation and identity and to make a case for the full time role.
A positive was the sight of fans who had made the trip to India. Hong Kong’s away support growing in number and reflecting the shift in fan culture which has been a long time coming.
Iraq Fulfil Their Destiny
On another time zone, thousands of miles away, Iraq played Bolivia in Monterrey.
Iraq, undertaking their 21st qualifier and having endured an on-going conflict and a three day (43-hour trip), were warmly embraced by their Mexican hosts.
Iraq were hoping for another moment like their legendary 2007 Asian Cup win to unite the nation. Younis Mahmoud’s header in the 73rd minute, from a corner, bringing joy from chaos nearly two decades ago.
The 2026 generation no doubt inspired by the legends of 2007 to reach even greater heights, not for personal glory; though for the greater good of a people who have suffered for too long.
Iraq took the lead through Ali Al-Hamadi in the 10th minute. Of course it would be Aymen Hussein, a mainstay of Iraqi football, who would score the winner in the 53rd minute to send a nation of 48 million and the diaspora into ecstasy.
An incredible story of persistence, grit and the human spirit. A first finals since the halcyon days of Mexico 1986 and Maradona.
Two qualifying matches with different stakes; one leading to the highest global stage while one will fade into the mist of history.
Iraq have passed the ultimate test and now they will face France, Norway, and Senegal this summer. A life long friendship with Mexico also established.
For Hong Kong and India; a time to self-reflect, analyze and build again. For now, the World Cup finals seem nothing but a distant dream.
