As Hong Kong’s national football team gears up for the AFC Asian Cup finals, defender Helio Goncalves has stepped up to reassure fans about the team’s defensive strengths. Under head coach Jorn Andersen’s attack-oriented strategy, the squad has welcomed potent forwards like Juninho, Stefan Pereira, Everton Camargo, and Michael Udebuluzor. Despite this focus on offense, Goncalves believes the team’s defense remains robust, even as they grapple with a shortage of defensive players and the injury of key centre-back Jacky Leung Nok-hang.
Goncalves highlighted the team’s respectable defensive record in 2023, where Hong Kong conceded 14 goals in 10 matches, including four against the formidable Iran. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Leung’s absence but expressed confidence in the squad’s collective ability to perform well. Emphasizing the need for balance, he noted that while the attacking style might leave gaps, the team is committed to delivering the best results possible.
At 38, Goncalves, with 34 caps for Hong Kong since 2016, has been a mainstay in the city’s football scene. After joining Hong Kong’s Citizen club eight years after moving to the city, he has since claimed six domestic titles with Kitchee. While he mulls over retiring after the Asian Cup finals, he remains focused on the immediate challenges, including the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Goncalves credits the team’s improvement to the inclusion of naturalized players and recent positive results. With an underdog spirit, Hong Kong aims not just to participate but to advance in the Asian Cup, facing stiff competition in a group with Iran and Palestine.
In preparation for the tournament, Andersen’s team will play friendly matches against China in Abu Dhabi, followed by a game against Tajikistan. A final warm-up against Saudi Arabia in Doha will precede their highly anticipated match against the UAE, ending a 56-year wait for Hong Kong’s participation in the Asian Cup finals.
The team’s recent training camp included a 2-1 loss to Kitchee and a 2-0 win against HK U23. Goncalves views the upcoming match against China as a crucial test, not because of any rivalry but as preparation for the intensity of the Asian Cup.
While an opportunity to play against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami looms, Goncalves prioritizes the Asian Cup, highlighting his dedication to representing Hong Kong. This commitment reflects the team’s determination to make a mark in the tournament and showcases Goncalves’ leadership and experience as vital to Hong Kong’s aspirations on the continental stage.
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