1 week Ago By Paul McNamara
It is increasingly likely that Hong Kong will play their AFC Asian Cup qualifier against India at Kai Tak Stadium on June 10, after the Asian Football Confederation listed the 50,000-seat ground as the venue on its website. But Hong Kong football bosses hinted the regional governing had jumped the gun, saying a ground was “still to be confirmed and will be announced by the football association”. However, head coach Ashley Westwood has been pushing to host India there and has previously dismissed fears his side would surrender home advantage for a crucial fixture, given they are yet to play at the new venue.
A “bigger crowd and bigger stadium” would inspire his players, Westwood said. Hong Kong drew their opening qualifier 0-0 in Singapore, in March, while India were surprisingly held 0-0 by Bangladesh in their first match. Only the winners of the four-team group gain qualification for the 2027 finals in Saudi Arabia.
The AFC has not listed venues on its website for Hong Kong’s home qualifiers against Bangladesh and Singapore, in October and November, respectively..
