Poon Pui-hin, the dynamic forward for Hong Kong’s national football team and Kitchee player, has recently showcased his remarkable abilities on the field, scoring three goals in two games and solidifying his position as a key player for Hong Kong in the upcoming AFC Asian Cup finals. His performance in practice matches against HK U23 and his club side has been a beacon of hope and excitement for the team, particularly as they navigate through intense training sessions under coach Jorn Andersen’s regime.
Poon’s emerging talent was evident during this year’s Asian Games, where he played a pivotal role in securing Hong Kong’s semi-final spot with a crucial goal against Iran. His recent achievements have not only boosted his personal confidence but also invigorated the team’s spirit. “I am so happy I have shown the coach I can perform how he wants in games, it is a big positive for me before the Asian Cup,” Poon expressed. He remains committed to contributing to Hong Kong’s success, whether as a starter or a substitute, aiming to gain further trust from the coach.
Despite his impressive on-field performance, Poon’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. His discipline on the field has been tested, with minor infractions impacting his game time. Notably, a red card in an AFC Champions League match against Bangkok United highlighted areas for personal growth and maturity. Poon acknowledged this as a learning curve, vowing to maintain his composure in future matches.
Poon’s progress has also been shaped by the guidance of his father and recently appointed Kitchee assistant coach, Poon Man-chun. The father-son duo shares a professional relationship on the field, with Poon Man-chun pushing his son to excel while maintaining a high standard of coaching. This relationship has been instrumental in Poon Pui-hin’s development as a player, ensuring his selections are based solely on merit and performance.
Looking ahead to the Asian Cup, Poon and his team are set to face formidable opponents, including China, Tajikistan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The matches against these strong teams will serve as crucial preparation for Hong Kong’s opening game against the UAE on January 14. Poon is optimistic about the team’s prospects, emphasizing their commitment to giving their all in every game. “We will push 100 per cent against China,” Poon stated, underlining the importance of facing tough opponents to enhance the team’s overall performance.
Poon Pui-hin’s rise in Hong Kong football is a story of talent, resilience, and growth. As the AFC Asian Cup approaches, he stands as a beacon of hope for his team, ready to showcase his skills on an international stage and contribute to Hong Kong’s football legacy.
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