HK footballers beat China for first time in 38 years

[emily]

HK footballers beat China for first time in 38 years

The SAR’s men’s team have defeated China 2-1 in a close-door friendly - the first time Hong Kong came out on top at an international football match in nearly 40 years.The sides were playing in the United Arab Emirates on Monday in preparation for the Asian Cup later this month, a tournament in which Hong Kong will be making its first appearance in 54 years.The SAR conceded nine minutes in with striker Tan Long tapping in a rebound off a save from Hong Kong goalkeeper Tse Ka-wing.In the second half, coach Jorn Andersen made several changes and it worked wonders.Substitute Max Poon scored twice within eight minutes to secure the famous victory - the first time Hong Kong had defeated China since the 2-1 win in a World Cup qualifier on 19 May, 1985.China were down to nine men after midfielder Wang Shangyuan and defender Wu Shaocong were sent off, and an assistant coach was also shown the red card.Earlier on in the day, Andersen called up defender Sean Tse as the last of 26 players to play in the Asian Cup in Qatar.

2024-01-02 05:48:53 (4)