Hong Kong Finalize 23-Man Squad for ASEAN Cup; Poon Returns After 18 Months
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago1 MIN
Summary
The Hong Kong Football Association (HKFA) announced the final 23-man squad for the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup on Friday, September 18. The roster features two first-time call-ups and a notable return for forward Poon Pui-hin. Kitchee contributed the most players with seven selections. The squad includes nine players currently plying their trade in the Chinese Super League and China League One. Training begins September 21, with the first group match scheduled for September 27 at Kai Tak Stadium.
Key Points
- Debutants Biti and Chan Yun-tung included in the squad, with Biti from Kitchee and Chan from Lee Man
- Poon Pui-hin, 25, returns after 18 months since the East Asian Championship qualifiers in December 2024
- Four Asian Games players selected: Chiu Chung-ngor, Wu Zhi-ming, Ngan Cheuk-bin, and Wu Yu-hei
- Nine players from Chinese clubs selected, including seven from Super League and China League One sides
- Kitchee dominate with seven representatives; training starts September 21
Why It Matters
The timing of the Asian Games call-ups creates a selection dilemma for head coach Ruben Diaz, as Hong Kong's potential progress to the knockout stage in Nagoya could leave him short-staffed for the opening matches against Laos and Brunei .
The timing of the Asian Games call-ups creates a selection dilemma for head coach Ruben Diaz, as Hong Kong's potential progress to the knockout stage in Nagoya could leave him short-staffed for the opening matches against Laos and Brunei .