In a scene more reminiscent of an English football ground than Tseung Kwan O, the Hong Kong national football team engaged in a dynamic and physical practice match against domestic champions Kitchee. The game, played under wet and cold conditions, served as a crucial preparatory step for the national team ahead of the AFC Asian Cup finals, set to begin on January 14 against the United Arab Emirates.
The match provided a valuable platform for Hong Kong’s players, particularly the younger squad members, to demonstrate their capabilities and vie for a spot in the final team selection. Among the standout performers was Jesse Yu Joy-yin, a promising player from Eastern, who made a compelling case for his inclusion in the final squad with his impressive play.
Kitchee, on the other hand, relished the opportunity to test themselves against a formidable opponent, something they often miss in the Hong Kong Premier League. The match featured the intensity and pace that Hong Kong can expect to encounter in Qatar, offering a glimpse into the challenges that lie ahead in the tournament.
The friendly yet fiercely contested game saw aggressive play from both sides. Kitchee’s Li Ngai-hoi set the tone with an early robust challenge, and the match continued in a similar vein, with both teams displaying commitment and physicality. Goals from Poon Pui-hin for Hong Kong and Temirov and Andy Russell for Kitchee highlighted the competitive nature of the encounter.
Hong Kong’s coach, Jorn Andersen, was a vocal presence on the sidelines, demanding constant effort and urging his players to maintain aggression and positive play throughout the match. His passionate coaching style was evident, as he actively guided the players and expressed dissatisfaction with any lack of commitment.
Young players such as Tse Ka-wing and Marcus Chang Hei-yin also made significant contributions, with Tse making notable saves and Chang showcasing skillful dribbling and control. Stefan Pereira, donning the Hong Kong jersey for the first time, also experienced the demands and expectations of playing at the national level.
Despite Hong Kong leading at one point, the team’s inability to sustain their advantage in the latter part of the game provided Andersen with critical insights for further improvement. The practice match not only served as a valuable preparation for the upcoming tournament but also marked a period of evolution and progress under Andersen’s two-year tenure as coach.
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